If you ever met Niki Frane, your life was better for it. Niki has moved on from this life, but the love and laughter she shared with this world has left an impact that won't be forgotten. Niki's favorite times were those she spent with family and friends. She had an intense curiosity, a love of sharp banter and a keen mind for sports and competition. Once she asked you about your life or shared her trademark sense of humor, you were forever part of her team.

Nicole Renee (Nordine) Frane was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota on August 22, 1981. She was very active as a child (often fueled by her love of Pepsi), and at an early age Niki turned down figure skates and insisted on playing hockey instead. Her skills on the ice immediately stood out and she enjoyed great success as she moved through the sport's local tiers, playing mainly against boys. A fierce competitor, Niki was a member of the inaugural GF Angels girls hockey team, then went on to pioneer women's college hockey in United States by playing for the University of North Dakota's newly formed Fighting Sioux women's club hockey team.

Even after hanging up her skates, Niki's love of sports did not diminish. She played softball for many years, closely followed the Chicago Blackhawks and the New York Yankees and developed a love for collecting sports memorabilia.

Initially, Niki worked as a paramedic, then got her nursing degree and worked at clinics as well as the hospital. She loved watching sports, time at the lake, nights out with the gang at Kelly's and her two dogs, Easton and Zoey.

Niki is survived by her parents John Nordine and Tammy Nordine, Grand Forks, ND; sisters Becky (Jay) Mindeman, Grand Forks, ND; Casey (Steve) Gibson, Chocowinity, NC; her beloved nieces and nephews; and former spouse and dear friend, Doug Frane, Grand Forks, ND. She was preceded in death by her grandmother Darlene Harms, her great uncle Donny Nordine, her uncle Ben Shipwash, and her aunts Kim Powers and Pam Nordine.

Memorial Service: Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:00 pm in the Norman Funeral  Home in Grand Forks, ND.

Visitation: one hour before service time in the funeral home.

Burial: Lake Bronson Cemetery, at Lake Bronson, MN.