Julie Nicewander, 43, of Fishers, Indiana, passed away on August 15, 2026, after a short and aggressive battle with cholangiocarcinoma. She was born on June 9, 1983, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Jack and Carol Nicewander.

Julie was a proud Hoosier who made Chicago home after attending Indiana University. She loved that city and everything it had to offer. After working in non-profit fundraising, she went back to school at DePaul University for her Master's in Public Service Management — a fitting move for someone whose whole life, personally and professionally, centered on looking out for others.

Julie's generous spirit, warmth, and quick wit touched everyone who knew her. She was kind, funny, and easy to love, with a gentle way about her that put people at ease. She was happiest outdoors — hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring what the world had to offer. She loved good food just as much, whether she was cooking for people she loved or hunting down a new favorite restaurant.

But above all, Julie loved her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Joe Leibold, and the two shared a marriage full of affection, humor, and steady support. She was a beloved daughter to Jack and Carol Nicewander, and a lifelong best friend to her sister, Kari. She was also a proud aunt, and being "Aunt Julie" or “Aunt Dewey” to her nieces and nephew was one of the great joys of her life.

Julie is survived by her husband, Joe Leibold; her sister, Kari (Scott) Kuper; her parents, Jack and Carol Nicewander; her mother-in-law, Linda Leibold; and sister-in-law Beth (Ben) Webster — along with her nieces and nephew, Allie and Claire Kuper, and Liam and Grace Webster. In addition to her immediate family, Julie was adored by family and friends spread around the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Julie's family asks that you honor her in whatever way feels most meaningful to you. If you're looking for a place to start, a donation to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation helps fund research that could give others more time. Otherwise, give to a cause close to your heart, volunteer somewhere that needs you, or simply spend a little extra kindness on the people around you — the world can always use more of it.