Nancy Demers

Nancy Louise Demers (nee Reeves) left us peacefully on September 26, 2011, at last rejoining the love of her life, Julien, who pre-deceased her. Nancy is survived by her children, Kim, Sue and Mike, along with their families. Nancy was raised in Geraldton, Ontario and, after marrying Julien in 1959, moved to Longlac to raise a family. Upon Julien's death in 1974, Nancy, a graduate nurse from McKellar General Hospital (Thunder Bay, Ontario), bravely took on what was then a very unusual role in Northern Ontario, namely that of a single parent. She began nursing full time at Geraldton District Hospital while raising 3 young children on her own, all with a heart so broken it would never truly heal. We can only appreciate now, as parents ourselves, what a monumental feat of courage that must have been for her. Later, Nancy moved to Thunder Bay where she proudly continued her nursing career at McKellar General Hospital. And what a nurse she was! We cannot count the number of people who have told us over the years how much they appreciated having her there during their time of need. In 1996, Nancy finally realized her dream of retiring to Victoria, British Columbia and was a resident of the Wellesley Retirement Home at the time of her passing. It is impossible to put someone's life properly in just a few short paragraphs. And anyone who knew Mom would know that she'd want us to just get to the point! Mom touched so many lives in so many ways, and each of you reading this will have your own memories of her. We will always be grateful for the life she provided us and the examples she always set for us. There could be no greater role model. In true Nancy fashion, she made certain that her final wishes were known with no room for debate. As directed by Mom, no formal service will be held. Donations, if desired, may be made on Mom's behalf to the Canadian Diabetes Association. We are so very grateful to all of Mom's caregivers, especially the nurses and doctors at Royal Jubilee Hospital who treated Mom with such kindness and respect and were so considerate of all her wishes at the end of her earthly struggle. And finally, we are grateful to the higher power that granted her the opportunity to exit this life on her own terms and with the peace she so truly deserved.McCall's of Victoria, BC(1-800-870-4210) "