December 27, 2023
The end. My final paragraph, sentence, and words in the “life and adventures of Valerie W” have been written. Like Winston Churchill, “I am prepared to meet my maker. Whether my maker is prepared for the ordeal of meeting me is another matter.” To facilitate this meeting and keep me in line are my dad-Bill, my mom-Winnie, and my brother-Bill.
Left to mourn and hopefully celebrate are my brother Dennis (Dorothy), my sisters Donna and Sandra, my sister from another mister Karen Rocca and many nieces and nephews.
I also leave to mourn my best friend and partner in crime Annie Szarko, who with her love, dedication and endless support was always there for me by my side .
To my cherished God sent children, Cody, and Alex. Words cannot express the “mother’s” kind of love I feel for you both. It was a privilege, an honor and truly a gift to be such a big part of your lives. You claimed a special place in my heart that I will carry with me forever.
Chloe and Zain (pumpkin and peanut) always remember how much Auntie loves you.
As alternate mom to Carly Rocca, study hard and know I am right there with you every step of the way. You will be an amazing nurse .
And finally, I leave behind my constant and faithful companion, mommy‘s girl-Binty.
While the last chapter of my life could have used some better times, I learned how truly blessed I was with support from my extended family and friends that spanned from childhood to now and colleagues from Laurentian Hospital to Cambrian College. I was blessed to have such supportive friends who provided food, prayers, and positive vibes.
Growing up in Onaping was like living in a Mark Twain novel. Kids looking for ways to pass time at Clear Lake or Windy Lake playing in the bush. (I don’t think there are any kids from my childhood who weren’t somehow involved in a bushfire.) Then there were times we’d just lay on the garage roof catching some rays.
I graduated from Levack District high school, then attended Laurentian University, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science and Nursing. My career started at Laurentian Hospital, then transitioned to Cambrian College, where I continued my love of nursing through teaching. I retired after 20+ years at Cambrian College when my health needed to be my main focus.
After a courageous battle with cancer, Val went to meet her maker peacefully at home with loved ones, including Binty by her side.
A heartfelt thank you to the nurses and all the staff on 4 North at HSN, Dr. G, Dr. Jeong, Dr. Nykilchyk, hospice care team, CCAC, Physio and homecare nurse and friend Lynn for your dedication and compassion to Val throughout her journey.
A celebration of life will be held on July 6, 2024 at Club 50, Main St W, Chelmsford, ON from 1-5.
Donations to the Valerie Wilson Memorial award would be a beautiful way to honor Val’s love of teaching. www.cambriancollege.ca/givetoday
An Irish Blessing
May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
May the rain fall softly upon your fields
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
I was sad to learn of Val’s passing. I have fond memories of playing baseball with her and the team. My sincerest condolences. (Viviane Munroe)
January 31, 2024
Fitting for Val to write her story. Val lived a full life though not long enough, full of adventure, laughter and love. There was nothing fake about Val, she was the really deal, tough when she needed to be and gentle the rest of the time. She cared and loved us like we cared and loved her. We had so so much fun at LU in nursing school and ever since. Time and distance never changed our friendship. Love you Val. Xo
January 25, 2024
Very sad to hear of Val’s passing. Val was a wonderful professor, and I will be forever grateful to her for the time she gifted me in her office patiently helping me to be the nurse I am today. She gave me tough love when I needed it most. Thank you Val.
January 24, 2024
Heavy hearts is an under statement, but we will continue to be strong just as you did. Your words of encouragement, support as well as praise will stay with all of us forever. You proved your strength and determination even before your sickness and now it’s our turn to do the same! I always said I loved the small town feel because of many reasons, but I couldn’t have imagined how a customer could enter our shop and lives as a paying client and so quickly and warm heartedly become a close friend and then end up as Family.
We will keep take care of Annie & Binty.
Cesar’s & Schnook’s when we do meet again.
January 22, 2024
My heart is broken! I will miss you forever my childhood friend but will always cherish the memories made with you! Our heartfelt condolences go out to Annie who was her amazing rock throughout her ordeal and who always kept me informed about Val and for that I am truly grateful! Condolences also to sisters Sandra and Donna and families and brother Dennis and family! Condolences also to Cody, Alex and families and also Karen and Carly! I know how special and loved by Val and how much you all meant to her! Know she’s now your Guardian Angel watching over you always! “Although it may be difficult to see beyond the sorrow; may the memories of yesterday help get you through tomorrow”. Rest In Peace my friend! Love Jo-Anne and Camile
January 22, 2024
To a friend who was more my sister who helped me through my cancer scare. You hold a precious spot in my heart you will truly be missed❤️
January 22, 2024