On August 28th, 2020, Nancy Wright passed away very suddenly from a cerebral aneurysm. Nancy was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend. She is survived by her loving husband Jason Easton, son Luke Easton, sister Sharon Butler, nephews Adam Butler and Evan Walker, and stepmother Stella Wright. Predeceased by her mother Betty Wright (nee Readman) in 2004 and her father Robert Norman Wright (Lanky Bob) in 2016.
Nancy was born on October 2, 1964, at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, BC. She grew up in Port Moody, BC, attending Seaview Elementary, Port Moody Junior and Port Moody Senior schools. She was a keen member of her school band and played alto sax, a talent she passed on to her son. Despite all of her world travels, she maintained strong ties to Port Moody and never missed a high-school reunion.
Nancy completed her Diploma in Nursing at Vancouver General Hospital in 1987, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Nursing degrees at University of Victoria in 1999 and 2002 respectively, and her Nurse Practitioner designation at University of Northern British Columbia in 2008. Nancy was a devoted Registered Nurse, College and University Instructor and Nurse Practitioner, always striving to advance social justice, fighting the good fight in her life and through her work.
Nancy loved to travel, was passionate about music, and was an arbiter of taste. Beneath her signature shock of flame-coloured hair and pierced nose, she was a truly modern alternative lady, who managed to infuse joy, art and music into everyone’s life. She travelled the world working as a nurse in places ranging from Saudi Arabia to the Yukon. She backpacked through Europe, Central America, Southeast Asia, Egypt and Kenya. With her travel partner, life partner, and eventually husband Jason, she trekked in Nepal and India, and presented her Master’s thesis in South Korea. After Luke came along, the family explored her Viking heritage in Norway, and travelled around Canada, the USA, the UK, and Europe. Along the way she collected a huge swath of friends, with whom she kept in regular touch.
Nancy rested on life support in the Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, for 24 hours until the family could say goodbye. The BC Transplant team was able to find matches for her pancreas, lungs, liver and kidney. In this way, Nancy is still helping others. Due to COVID-19, a private memorial service will be held.
Nancy’s family has decided to create an award in Nancy’s name in the School of Nursing, at University of Victoria. Donations are welcome. Kindly mail cheques made out to “University of Victoria” with “Nancy Wright Nursing Award” in the memo line.
Send to: Development Officer; Human and Social Development, University of Victoria, P.O. Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, or donate on line at https://extrweb.uvic.ca/giveonline.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Parm Dhaliwal
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Judy Burgess I am so sorry to hear of Nancy’s sudden passing. I did my PhD later in my career and through challenging times, Nancy was so genuine, kind and helpful to me. We worked well together as teachers. I loved her red hair and sun shiny smile. She was so well thought of by all. And so dedicated to family life and her work as a nurse and NP. Blessings to her family.
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Mark Weeks I met Nancy in Elementary School at Seaview and went all the way through to graduation. She was a tremendously generous and upbeat person. I always enjoyed catching up with her at the Reunions. Nothing but fond memories. Am shocked to hear of her passing.
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Linh I was introduced to Nancy by a relative. Even though we have never met in person and only exchanged conversations via text messages, I already felt Nancy’s warmth and kindness. I was shocked to hear the news! My deepest condolences to Nancy’s family members, friends and loved ones. Rest in peace, Nancy.
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Derek Rickwood How tragic to find out the loss of Nancy. My heart and thoughts are with Jason and his family during this extremely difficult time.
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Robert Hasegawa, DC Dear Jason ans Luke:
I am so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Nancy. My deepest condolences to you both. Nancy’s sense of humour and positive outlook on life will truly be missed by all who knew her. I wish you both strength and courage through these troubling times.
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Kim Thompson So sorry for your loss, Jason. I never had the privilege of meeting Nancy but from the obituary and the FB posts I’ve seen over the years she must have been an amazing partner to you and mother to your son. ❤️
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Lorraine and Barry Lorraine and Barry at #5 Plaskett
Deepest condolences to Nancy’s family. Our hearts go out to you in your tragic loss.
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Karen & Dick Rennie Jason and Luke, we are so very sorry for your loss. Nancy was an incredible woman and we join in the many others who send their condolences to you and your family.
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Kate Brown I had the great opportunity to work with Nancy for around at year at RAAC and had so many wonderful conversations. Her authenticity, humour, and warmth will be remembered in my heart for good. I know I never got to meet you both Jason and Luke but am so saddened and I am thinking of you both so much.
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Sue Scotnicki and Colin Gareau We had the opportunity to meet Nancy on a few occasions, and if first impressions count for anything, she captured our attention. We have known Jason for some time and he often spoke of Nancy’s work. We had not realized how well travelled and accomplished she was. She helped so many and obviously lived from a place of curiosity and service to others. Our hearts go out to Jason and Luke and the family.
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Bruce & Sandra Handey So sorry for your loss.
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Jim & Tracy Matthews Jason, Luke and Family:
We are so sorry for your loss and hope that you find some comfort knowing how many people care about you. RIP Nancy.
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Pam O’Keefe Jason and Luke, Our sincere and deepest sympathy to you both. Please know you are in our thoughts and hearts.
Pam and Mike O’Keefe
Andreas Mother.
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coleen heenan Jason and Luke, Nancy and I first met when we both started on faculty at UVIC 20 years ago. We shared many life events including the death of our mothers in the same year, the remarriage of our fathers within a short time, returning to NP school and then teaching in the NP program at UVIC. We continued our relationship as part of the Island Nurse Practitioner community and it was in that capacity I had the privilege to connect with her at least monthly over the past six years. I appreciated her analytical mind, big picture perspective, willingness to ask questions and seek answers, as well as her frankness and ongoing curiosity.
Her passing has left an immense sadness.
Thanks for including me in Nancy’s memorial. It was a gift to hear the love and depth of friendships she developed over the years. May the stories and the warmth of the memories sustain you both.
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Elizabeth and Peter Monk Tears were shed at the Monk family home today when we saw the obituary. Nancy combined being effective with being fun and funny and kind when we worked together at the Central Middle School Band Parents Association. What a devastating loss.
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Lisa Holloway How beautiful that Nancy continues to help others by making a critical difference in their lives and health. Love and deep condolences to all of the family
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Dee Hoyano My condolences to Nancy’s family and friends. We were so glad to have her as part of the Victoria Street Nursing collaborative. Her passion and care for the vulnerable was an example for all of us.
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Linda M Nancy was a lovely soul and helped me immensely. She took me into her practice when there was nowhere else for me to “fit”. She was always upbeat and willing to listen to my issues. I will miss her greatly. My condolences on your loss.
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Corinne Fournier I send my heartfelt condolences to Nancy’s family and dear friends. I have been thinking of her and family all week, I will remember her with a smile.
She was great to work with on Pandora ACT, and I was delighted she stayed with ACT after her temp with us. Thank you Nancy!
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Fiona Crisp I was shocked and saddened to learn of Nancy’s passing. As a colleague in the past few years, I will miss her warm smile, enthusiasm and energy. A true gem! My condolences to Jason and Luke.
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Katie McT (nee Gorick) Nancy was our two door down the street neighbor in Port Moody (Westmount Drive) growing up – she would watch me at times and I idolized her. Later in life we met up again only to discover we had both become nurses. She was always very kind, humble and fun to be with. She has left a mark in nursing – but mostly in our hearts. My sincere condolences to you . . . I am so sorry to learn about her sudden passing. She inspired me at all levels, ages and stages.
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Morgan Fankboner I met Nancy in graduate school. She was so fun, progressive and smart as a whip. She looked part rebel and with a bit of fairy thrown in. Nancy inspired folks to be themselves and flourish.
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Lisa Corkery It was always such a pleasure to run into Nancy who always had a kind smile and something nice to say. Hard to accept such a random and sudden loss of one so vibrant. A huge loss to the community. Thinking of her family, may you find peace.
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Mary Delaney and Gerry Madden Gerry and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of our beautiful and vibrant neighbour. Nancy lit up the neighbourhood as I suspect she did everywhere she went. We offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Jason and Luke. Know that your neighbours are always here whenever you need us.
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Diane MacLeod I am deeply saddened to heard this news. Nancy was an exceptional person, faculty and NP.
My condolences to family and friends.
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Noreen and Glen I’m not sure what to say in the face of such a difficult loss. We just wanted you to know that we care about you and Luke and share in your sadness.
With deepest sympathy.
Noreen and Glen
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Betty Tate I am so shocked and saddened about this news. I knew Nancy when she was a student at UVic and then worked with her on a research project and as a Senior Instructor at UVic before she carried on to her NP. She was pure joy to be around and to work with. She has indeed left her footprints in so many places in nursing. I was working with her when she married you Jason and when she had you Luke and she was so happy! She loved you both deeply! My sincere condolences and please know many of us are thinking of Nancy with wonderful memories and feeling very, very sad.
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Richard Gauthier My deepest condolences to family and friends. Nancy did great work, and touched so many people’s lives in a positive way. She will be missed.
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Sue MacSporran Jason and Luke, My heart & prayers go out to you at this time. Nancy was a wonderful, impactful, wise, patient, caring, fun & funny person!. She will be deeply missed .
Love you you both.
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Cindy Lundy Our deepest condolences to your family. Nancy was a member of our organizing committee a few years ago for our medical conferences and was a regular attendee at our events. Nancy was always friendly and kind and when on our committee had thoughtful and insightful feedback on topics. Nancy was registered for our next conference in November. I have just processed a full refund of her registration fee. Again our deepest sympathy on your sudden and unexpected loss.
Regards
Cindy Lundy and Wayne Ghesquiere at Nova Clinical Services Inc.
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Devin Lynn I worked with Nancy over the past 6 years and will miss her gentle smile, dedication to her patients and growing her knowledge to care for them, collaboration, and professionalism. Nancy was someone who truly cared for some of the most vulnerable and challenged people in our community, and through her caring, made their lives a little easier. Sincere condolences to her family, friends, co-workers and patients who will miss her greatly.
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Pieta VanDyke Paddled with Nancy many years ago on a Dragonboat team. I’m so sorry to learn of her loss and the loss to Jason and Luke. My condolences.
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Rita Schreiber and Steven Goring Dear Jason and Luke,
Like everyone else, we are shocked and saddened by Nancy’s untimely passing. She stood up for her ideals and has left her footprints all over the nursing/NP world, as a student, a teacher, a preceptor, and a practitioner. Yet she had a great sense of humour and we’ve shared many belly laughs together.
Luke, please know that you have been her world from when you were the size of a pea.
We are so sorry for your loss, and wish you healing.
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Tenny King Devastating news. Thinking of all of Nancy’s family, friends, and colleagues at this very difficult time. Rest in peace, Nancy. Thank you for all your service to the community.
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Celeste Dempster I was so deeply sorry to hear of Nancy’s sudden passing – it’s tough to get your brain around that she’s no longer with us. My deepest condolences to Jason and Luke and to all her family and friends who are mourning her loss.
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Jerry Wyshnowsky Jason and Luke, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, I can’t begin to imagine your shock and pain. All that I can offer as consolation at this time is the thought that she lived her life to the absolute fullest and left you with memories of her at her very best. Stay strong and true as she would have wanted.
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Susan Trant I did not know Nancy personally, but know Jason through the paddling community. Jason always spoke of the inspiration that Nancy gave to him. My thoughts go out to you and your family at this time. Hugs!
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Nicole Ng I am a patient of Nancy and she was more than a doctor to me , she had helped me tremendously in my recovery, from a bunion corrector surgery to my mental health. She was my nurse , my doctor, my friend , my therapist and a wonderful human being. I am so sorry for her sudden passing . My thought and sincere condolences to her family.
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Chaundra Willms I always admired the way Nancy’s presence in a room was always a sunny one. She was a supportive, encouraging colleague and friend to all the NPs on the Island. So very sorry for your tragic loss.
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Karen & David James Dear Jason and Luke,
Thank you for sharing such an informative obituary and meaningful tributes from Nancy’s loving flock of family and friends. As you guys are amongst the newest members in the Strata, the ultimate depth and brilliance of your beloved Nancy was yet to be understood by us at #6.
Despite the relatively short time we have been neighbours, Nancy’s friendly manner and engagement skills were clearly evident. You could tell she was a community builder. Nancy seemed inclined to walk into the street to join spontaneous neighbourly conversations. And no matter the wind chill Jason, you and Nancy were cheerful regulars at the strata’s weekly, therapeutic COVID 19 street cocktail parties.
Please accept our sincere condolences. We hope you both are comforted with family memories from your new chapter on this rocky point. We hope you guys are further comforted by the everchanging seas and winds, and by the huge skies with views to the heavens.
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Tracey Day Terribly sad news. My deepest condolences.
Nancy was a truly lovely human being.
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Tina Hospers & John Koster Dear Jason, Luke and family – John and I send our most profound condolences for the loss of Nancy. We send our virtual love and support during this most difficult time. Anytime you need a shoulder, please give us a call. I’ve been there and I understand how hard it is to lose your spouse. Take care.
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Andrew Madding I did not know Nancy Wright, but have been good friends with her husband Jason for years.
I will be sending a cheque to the University for the Nancy Wright Nursing Award
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Pauline van Blokland We were very sorry to hear that Nancy has left you so suddenly. Our prayers are with you and your son Jason. May you be surrounded with God’s peace and love at this sad time. Nik and Pauline
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Barbara Fox (Juchau) My deepest condolences to you all, Nancy’s family, her dear friends and her many colleagues. I am so very saddened by her loss to this world. I have known Nancy over many years as a colleague at UVic School of Nursing, within the community of NP’s and as a fellow NP have had the extreme honour of covering her local practice this year as she joined family adventures. She leaves a great legacy of teaching, leadership, compassion and clinical excellence for all those she touched. It was always clear that her patients and co-workers admired her, were inspired by her, and felt cared for by her. I feel blessed to have known her.
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Dr Mani Bhasin Mani Bhasin, Physician colleague
My family and I express our deepest condolences on her untimely passing away and are filled with unmeasurable grief and sadness at the tragic loss. We hope and pray for the family to have the strength to bear the loss.She will be missed by her colleagues and patients alike.She was a wonderful , kind and amazing person with a great energy and enthusiasm for life. RIP.
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Sandeep Chand I’m so sorry for your loss sending you and Luke healing vibes and strength. I ran into Nancy just before you guys moved from James Bay she beamed with pride when she talked about you & Luke. Holding your family in my prayers.
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Matt and Dana Easton Nancy, you were the best sister we could ever have hoped for. We will miss you forever. Our deepest sympathies to our brother Jason and nephew Luke.
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Naomi Lane Nancy was like a little sister to me. She was always caring, smart, independent and spoke her mind. She was a leader, not a follower and could not be easily swayed. This strength carried her though her professional and personal life. She had a great sense of humour and I loved the way she always unabashedly swore a blue streak.
She was a pillar of strength and I’m sure her patients could lean hard on her, as her friends and family surely could. I am so sad for her family. This will be a hard road for a while, but she will watch over and protect them from the great beyond.
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Sandy Cunningham Jason, Luke & family. I am so sad to hear of Nancy’s passing she will always be in your hearts . Another angel to look after us.
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Fiona Hutchison A beautiful tribute for a beautiful woman inside and out. Jason and Luke -my love and thoughts are with you both…
And I know her energy and light will always be near.
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Susan Walton Heartfelt condolences to Jason, Luke, family and friends of the lovely Nancy Wright. During her time in the Yukon Nancy and her positive colourful vibes suffused her fellow workers at WGH – I don’t think I ever met her without a big smile on my face and a laugh not far behind. Thank-you for letting us know she was an organ donor…May her light travel with you all the rest of your lives.
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Esther Sangster-Gormley Dean Jason and Luke, I was shocked and saddened to learn of Nancy’s untimely death. My heart goes out to both of you. Nancy and I taught together in the NP program at UVic before she left to pursue her passion to practice as an NP. She touched many lives, including future NPs who carry on her legacy in how they practice and care for people everyday. She is missed but her legacy continues in so many ways. Blessings, Esther
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Hansi and Bish Bhagwanani Our deepest condolences to the family. Our prayers are with you in this very difficult time.
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Sonya Jakubec So shocked. So sad. Nancy was a force – a phenomenal friend, nurse, human. A life of integrity, passion, and a spirit of fun – the kind of person who left everything better than she found it (including us rumply souls out there)! I will remember Nancy for this and so much more – our grad school adventures – cutting our teeth on research and teaching, the many parties, laughing, real support through the life events/milestones, then (even from a distance) all the hand written cards and notes of encouragement, real/honest updates… and the steadfastness of a friend for life! Heartfelt condolences to Jason, Luke and all of Nancy’s family, colleagues and loved ones…the circle is expansive and so are the memories! Thank you, Nancy – may you soar high!
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Darcy Eggleston Jason, my heart goes out to you and your family. May you find peace in the days ahead, and find comfort with your memories of a life well lived.
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Leanna Papadopoulos Dedpest condolences to all her family and friends. I am shocked znd saddened by Nancy’s sudden passing. She is a beautiful soul. Rest in peace Nancy xo
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Louise and Ron Lloyd Ron and I are in shock and very saddened. We remember Nancy as a lovely person and you both as great neighbours. Our hearts go out to you, Luke and family.
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Art Hay I was so very saddened to hear this tragic news. Our most heartfelt condolences to you Jason, your dear son and all extended family members and friends. Our prayers and thoughts are with each of you. Art Hay and family, Glace Bay, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
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Eunice Chylla Such devastating news.I had the pleasure of working with Nancy in Saudi Arabia.She was such a lovely person inside and out.My heartfelt condolences go out to her family.
RIP Nancy.
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Leona Woolston-Young I am saddened & sbocked at Nancy’s passing. As a highschool classmate and a long-distance friend, I saw how Nancy was a shining light to her family & friends, God rest her soul, and bring peace to her loved ones. Until We Meet Again, God Bless you.
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VAL edmonds So sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing. I worked with her many years ago in Saudia Arabia. She was always pleasant, fun and full if life. Prayers for her family. A giving soul that t will truly be missed
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Tanya Petryk, NP My sincere condolences to Nancy’s family. I’ll forever remember Nancy’s diplomatic way of moving the Nurse Practitioner profession forward in a light and humorous way. She was such a talented, smart and compassionate practitioner and I am terribly saddened by such a sudden loss. Kind regards.
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Michelle Deighton Nancy was a true north soul and kindred spirit. I am deeply saddened that our tenure as sisters-in-law was far too brief. Nancy you were a friend and an ally from day 1. Thank you for making me feel so welcomed into the family. Until we meet again. ❤️
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Denise Wait My deepest condolences to Nancy’s family. May you find strength in this difficult time and are surrounded with love each day. I am so glad that there will be a nursing award in her name. Nancy will be missed by so many.
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Darlene Newburg My sincere condolences to Jason, Luke and family. Nancy was so well loved by all who knew her and will be truly missed. Rest In Peace knowing you were Loved and truly left an positive intact on many lives.
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Anna, Aj, Gilann Lafreniere Jason….there are no words that can express the sorrow we feel of your beloved Nancy’s passing. Know that we are holding you and Luke close in our hearts. Cherish all the memories…speak of her often….always remember the beautiful life you shared together. Until you meet again.
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Robert Schemmer Robert,Emi and Jeff Schemmer
We are so saddened by this devastating news and wish her family strength at this very difficult time.
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Clarissa Y My sincere condolences to Nancy’s family and friends.
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GWYN McIntosh So saddened to hear of Nancy’s sudden passing! My deepest condolences to her family and close friends… may you find strength in each other’s love through this challenging time.
Nancy will be missed by so many of us in her professional circle as well…
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Laura Vicol, NP It is with a very heavy heart that I am expressing my deepest condolences to Nancy’s family and all her close friends and colleagues. I am left without many words in the face of such a tragedy. I wish her family strength during this very difficult time.
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Kim Orwaard-Wong, NP My sincerest condolences to the family.
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Barbara L Eddy I’m so so saddened by this news. My thoughts are with all her family, close friends and colleagues who worked along side her. Nancy was an absolutely beautiful human being – kind, generous, funny and a fabulous person. A nursing award in her name is a wonderful dedication. I will miss her terribly.
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Ginny Burns Absolutely shocked to hear of Nancy”s sudden passing. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Jason and Luke, my deepest condolences to you and the family on Nancy’s passing. The volume of messages shared here by so many people who cared about Nancy is a testament to the impact she made in this world. I wish you both strength through her memories and god rest her soul.