September 6, 1940 - March 25, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that Nicki's family announce her recent passing in Qualicum Beach. She died peacefully with family at her side. She was a remarkable woman, a loving, and devoted Mum, Granny, and friend, who will be missed by so many.
She is survived by her daughter, Tanya (Cliff), and her sons, Steve (Mutsumi), Chris (Donna), and Ian (Yuka) and her treasured grandchildren, Alexandra, Suzu, Blake and Devon.
Nicki was born in London, England at the start of the Blitz. Her trips to the English countryside fostered her love of the outdoors and inspired her achievements in guiding. She was awarded the highest attainable rank of "Queen's Guide" in the U.K. at the age of 16.
Nicki completed her nursing training at King's College in London and came to Canada shortly after in 1963 aboard the Cunard steamship, Carmania, landing in Quebec. After a short stay in Toronto, she made her way west to B.C. This was always her goal after seeing many pictures of the Rockies and the coast sent to her by her Aunt Lil, who was a war bride, living near Kelowna.
Nicki and her family moved to Hornby Island in 1979, after numerous summer camping trips. She continued her nursing career in Comox and Tahsis and felt very privileged to be a part of many home births on Hornby. She had a true love of the arts and music.
After leaving nursing, she ran her gallery, Arbutus Arts at Ford's Cove, for 20 years, closing the doors in 2016. Over the years she was proud to support both established and new local artists. Her weekly featured artist shows in the summer were well attended and with the shows opening on Friday night she was able to combine both her love of the arts and entertaining.
Nicki embodied the true spirit of volunteerism. She helped to establish Hornby Island Elder Housing and was also a proud supporter of the Hornby Festival Society.
She loved to travel and explore all over the world, sometimes with family, a friend, a group, and occasionally on her own.
Nicki left Hornby in 2018 for health reasons and to live closer to her family. She eventually settled in Qualicum Beach. She never returned to her beloved Hornby but could see it from her window. This view inspired many stories to be told and memories to be shared, especially when friends dropped by for a visit.
Nicki will be laid to rest at the Hornby Island Cemetery by her family later this Spring. Her family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the nurses and care aids of the 3rd floor at The Gardens in Qualicum Beach. You were always there for our Mum, not only providing care, but watching over her when we couldn't, and preserving her dignity with such love and respect. We are forever grateful to you all.
"Don't grieve when I'm gone, but sing the songs that I have loved so much, and let life's laughter fill the days that I have left behind..."