Nicole Janine Hinken

Nicole Kuzila Hinken, Sunrise 6/28/1966 - Sunset 9/27/2024 Nicole Janine Kuzila Hinken passed away at her home on September 27, 2024. Visitation will be 6-8 pm Friday, October 4, 2024. Funeral Mass will be held at 10am Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th St S Independence, MO 64055. Inurnment following the funeral at New Salem Cemetery, 1823 N Blue Mills Rd Independence, MO 64058. Nicole Janine Kuzila was born on June 28th, 1966 at Independence Sanitarium Hospital. Nicole, the only daughter of parents Thomas and Donna (Barr) Kuzila, had two older brothers, Thomas and Jeff. Nicole grew up in Independence. She worked hard and was an early graduate of Fort Osage High School in 1984. Nicole pursued her college degree at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, achieved the highest GPA in her sorority in her class, and was awarded sister of the year. Nicole was inducted into the Order of Omega, a leadership honor society for members of Greek organizations, and was a little sister of Sigma Tau Epsilon Fraternity. She graduated in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology Rehabilitation. Nicole enjoyed a fulfilling career. She served as Marketing Manager at Goodwill Industries, Director of Marketing Communications at Electronic Payments Core of Knowledge, and Vice President of Strategic Market Services at U.S. Central. She became Story Designer/Senior Account Executive at Sassafras Marketing, Inc., and then Chief Marketing Officer, EVP Financial Institution Division at eMONEco, Inc. Most recently, she was the Chief Marketing Officer and Owner of Hinken Communications – “Connecting through Content & I Write Resumes” where she made a lasting impact through her expertise in digital marketing. Nicole earned licenses and certifications in digital marketing, inbound marketing, and HubSpot. During Nicole’s lifetime, she loved to help others and contribute positively to society. A compassionate spirit, Nicole volunteered at Marketing services and the food pantry, Harvesters, as well as made donations to the Tom Karlin Foundation, Crossroads Hospice, Legacy of Hope, and Lee’s Summit Social Services. Nicole is survived by her two daughters (her greatest pride and joy), Isabella and Sophia Hinken; parents Thomas and Donna (Barr) Kuzila; brother Jeff Kuzila and wife Lisa, niece Michaela; Aunt Alice Gregory (John); Uncle John Barr (Jody); and numerous cousins. Nicole is preceded in death by her brother Thomas “Swede” Kuzila Jr.; grandparents, John and Frances Barr, Andrew and Susan Kuzila; aunts, Mary Purcell (Deke), Wanda Clark (Ted), Norma Murray (Jim), Mary Brenner (Bob); uncles, Clarence Barr (Marie), Andrew Kuzila (Louise), Ray Kuzila; and her cherished cat, Ginsburg. Nicole loved all of these people and held them close to her heart, just as they did for her. Nicole was a bright, funny, kind-hearted woman who thrived helping others. A devoted mother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and friend who will be missed by so many. Contributions may be made to Harvesters food pantry or the charity of your choice in Nicole’s memory. Mom, you were a smart, talented, compassionate, and beautiful woman who we will miss every day. We could not have asked for a better mother who taught us so much and filled our lives with so much laughter and joy. We know you are at peace and with us every day for every moment, big or small. We love you to the moon and back forever and always. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)