Denise D. Nolda, 65

Denise D. Nolda, 65, of Lincoln, NE, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025, at Country House in Kearney surrounded by the love of her husband, son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren, after a long and courageous battle with muscular dystrophy and dementia. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., April 11, 2025, at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m., at the Bartlett Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., April 10, 2025, at Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family to be designated later. Visit www.hlmkfuneral. com to leave a tribute or message of condolence. Horner Lieske McBride and Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services in Kearney is in charge of arrangements.

Born October 17, 1959, in O’Neill, NE, Denise grew up on a ranch nestled in the Sandhills, where she developed the resilience, determination, and strong-willed spirit that would carry her throughout her life. She graduated from Bartlett High School in 1978 and went on to attend cosmetology school in Grand Island. Denise built a successful career as a cosmetologist in Lincoln, where her clients became lifelong friends, and her artistry left a lasting impression.

In 1980, she married the love of her life, Keith Nolda. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and family. Denise had a passion for traveling, discovering new wines, and camping under the stars—but above all, her greatest joy came from her family. Her son Jason, along with his wife Jenn, blessed her with four grandchildren, AJ, Gavin, Brynn, and Finn, who became the very heart of her world.

Christmas was Denise’s favorite time of year, and she made it magical for her family. Her tradition of decorating the tree with her grandkids and making chocolate-covered pretzels will remain a treasured memory and a legacy of love for years to come. Later in life, Denise experienced a moment of deep peace and grace as she accepted the Lord as her Savior at her daughter-in-law Jenn’s dining room table with Pastor Dean by her side. Her faith gave her comfort, and she faced her final days with strength and dignity.

She is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Dexter. She is lovingly remembered by her mother, Dorothy Dexter; her husband, Keith Nolda; her son Jason (Jenn); her grandchildren AJ, Gavin, Brynn, and Finn; her siblings JR Dexter, Jeff Dexter, Bob Dexter, Brian Dexter, Becky Hoffman (Dexter), and Natalie Harrington (Dexter); and a host of extended family and dear friends.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to AseraCare Hospice for their compassionate care and the dignity they provided Denise during her final journey. Your guidance and grace will never be forgotten.

Denise’s strength, loyalty, and unwavering love left a mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she has left this world, her spirit lives on in the traditions she created the faith she embraced, and the family she cherished so deeply.