Fundraiser for the Nickolaus Family

Tambi Spitz Kilhefner is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Theresa Arnett Nickolaus.

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In the early morning hours of Saturday, December 2nd, the Nickolaus family, (Ross, Theresa, and their son Tavin) were victims of an unspeakable tragedy in their Aurora, Nebraska home.

In what appears to be a mental health break, Caleb Arnett, Theresa's oldest son who was temporarily staying in the home at the time, viciously and relentlessly attacked the Nickolaus family one by one, attempting to take their lives. This was an attack of complete surprise, leaving damage and horror that is utterly unspeakable.

Tragically, Ross lost his life in the attack. Theresa was critically injured and had to be life-flighted to Omaha so her complex life threatening injuries could be urgently treated. Tavin experienced the miracle of escaping with minor physical injuries. However, both he and Theresa are deeply traumatized and must now find a way forward without their beloved father and husband, Ross. Additionally, Ross leaves behind loving parents, Jim and Bonnie, and a circle of family, friends and colleagues, each devastated at what has happened and working together to do their best to support Theresa and Tavin.

At this time, we need your help! We are raising funds to assist Theresa with the many un-covered costs associated with this horrific tragedy - things no one would ever want to think about imagining. Securing funds for a proper funeral for Ross is of the utmost importance along with other expenses such as professional cleaning of their home, which is completely uninhabitable at this time as a result of what has taken place there.

Here is our ask:

We implore you to first pray! Pray that the Nickolaus family can find their way forward without Ross and find peace as they have lost nearly their whole lives in this devastating and horrific attack.

Further, we ask that you give if you can. No amount is too small and each gift is greatly appreciated by a deeply hurting family.

Lastly, please pass this fundraiser far and wide! As noted from the start, it has been our great hope to actually increase the initial $10,000 goal amount significantly. Praise God, we reached the initial goal of $10,000! We are incredibly gretful for all who have given and prayed! This is a tremendous help! Right now, costs are easily surpassing $20K to $25K for the various needs (funeral, cleanup, costs associated with Theresa and Tavin not being able to live in their home, etc.). So we are moving the goal up to the next increment, which is $15,000. Again, thank you to everyone who has prayed and who has given!

While there are no words sufficient to express the tragedy the Nickolaus's have endured, there is tremendous hope! Theresa, Tavin and Ross' family are drawing strength from your love and support and are so very grateful for your gift today! Thank you for helping them in this, their greatest time of need, especially during this tender Christmas season.

May you be blessed in your care of the Nickolaus's at this time!

Below: Ross, an avid fisherman, enjoying his favorite pastime with his son, Tavin.

NOTES:

The memorial service for Ross will be December 29th, 2023 in Aurora, Nebraska, with visitation the evening before.
If you'd prefer to make a donation outside of this platform, an account has been set up at Heritage Bank in Aurora, Nebraska. You can contact the bank directly to make a contribution or drop off a check or cash.

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