Nicolene Mary DeGeestOf Norwalk, IowaNicolene DeGeest, age 63, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 16, 2017 at Taylor House Hospice. She was born on August 3, 1953 in Knoxville, Iowa. Nicolene graduated from Melcher High School and later went on to Central College to obtain her 4 year degree. Niki was married to Bruce DeGeest from 1978 - 1994. She proudly served her country ranked as Lieutenant Colonel in the USAF (ANG) Air National Guard for 26 years. Nicolene was a loyal member of many military and animal organizations that were very dear to her heart. Above all, she loved time spent with her family and her dogs. Those left to cherish her memory include her loving sons, Brian DeGeest and Brad (Keela) DeGeest; grandchildren, Katie, Kamie, Lucilla, and a grandson on the way; brother, Pat Conrad; and a host of family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Lucille Conrad.Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 30, 2017 at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter. Reception in her honor will follow at the Veterans Reception Center, 910 Main St. in Van Meter.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project in loving memory of Niki. Condolences may be expressed at: HamiltonsFuneralHome.com