Of Mequon, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully, at the age of 66 years, at home with family surrounding her on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 after a four year fight with cancer that showed her courage, faith and quiet strength.  Linda was born in La Junta, Colorado on July 22, 1946 to Peter W. and Joy Churchward. She spent her early years on the Central California coast in San Luis Obispo where horses and the outdoors were among her early passions.  After graduating from California Polytechnic State University, she worked in the retail industry where she met Doug Nie, her husband of 42 years.

Throughout her life Linda’s first love was her family.  From California, to Texas and then Wisconsin she poured her heart and soul into raising three children and took enormous pride in watching them grow. She found great joy in her nieces and nephews and two grandchildren who lovingly knew her as “Mimi”.

Linda delighted in entertaining and cherished her role as resident family gourmet.  She was a dedicated member of North Shore Congregational Church and enjoyed the arts, and travel.  For 20 years, she worked in the travel industry managing corporate travel for several large companies. 

Linda is survived by her husband Doug, three children, Carrie (Scott Friedman) Nie, Laurie (Andy) Hobbs, and Bryan (Christa) Nie; granddaughter, Natalie Nie Friedman and grandson Owen Douglas Nie.  She is further survived by her sister, Joy Rampoldi, brother, Gordon Churchward, nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

A Memorial Service to celebrate her life will be held on Tuesday, June 18th at 4:00 PM at NORTH SHORE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, 7330 N. Santa Monica Blvd. Fox Point, WI 53217. Contributions in Linda’s memory can be made to North Shore Congregational Church.