I met Val for the first time as she unpacked to set up for three years in Nurses' Residence at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto in 1967, having arrived a bit later than most of us by train from Saskatchewan. I mostly remember that she brought her pillows and was so enthusiastic, friendly and very entertaining. Her vital and caring personality never changed over the years in spite of the challenges she faced. She always remembered important dates in my life and it felt good to know that I could share some of my joys and concerns with her even though we lived many miles apart.

We suffered the losses of our mothers at a similar time in our early adulthood and that created a strong bond of understanding.

She was a very dear friend and I value the years in training as neighbours and confidants and after that of knowing she was always close by in spirit. Val was a beautiful person inside and out.

I have photos of the boys growing up and we shared grandchildren stories and pictures. They were the light of her life. Val valued all of her family, her siblings and their families and her friends. She kept them close to her heart.

I will miss her. My life is all the richer for having met this vibrant and very special person. the world is a better place because Val lived in it.

With love and caring to all those blessed with having Val in their lives.

Linda Stewart

We remember Val from our aunt Jackie’s stories of long ago in Nursing school and from the few times we met Val on our trips to the West. Mostly we remember her strength and her welcoming personality. She sparkled and she cared deeply for others.

Most recently, we were touched by the flowers and sympathy she sent when Mary (Jackie’s sister and our Mom) died last summer. It struck us as an especially kind gesture from someone who was herself suffering illness.

We send our sympathy and love to Val’s family and friends on the loss of a vibrant flame. We feel for you.

Cara Feldman and Deb Gardiner (the Bastead sisters from the East)

Valerie...we first met as roommates in nursing residence at HSC in 1967. We were naive but quickly learned about life’s realities while nursing our little patients (newborn to 19) Our balance was in residence life....comradery, fun, drama over loves lost and found! And so we transformed into young adults and competent nurses! Val’s classmates remember her as “a cheerful spirit”, “a wonderful nurse”, “a light in life”, “fun”, with a “contagious laugh”, “a vibrant spirit”.....she was well liked and well loved.

Val met life challenges with courage and faith, she always showed care of others and often had words of wisdom. She talked with love of family with each one being special and precious to her.

Ray and I send our condolences to family knowing each of you carry with you your own memories and love of her.

I am grateful to have known and learned from Valerie and to call her my forever friend. Always loved, always remembered Brenda

Someone as special as Val can never be forgotten. Her family meant everything to her, and I wish I had known her longer. May the memory of how much she loved her children and grandchildren give you peace.

Gail and Bill Schulte

“Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.”

Val and I met in 1982 and not only were we neighbors, but we became good friends. We went our separate ways in 2000 when I transferred out of Fort McMurray with my employment but we still kept in touch over the years. She will always hold a special place in my heart. Gone but definitely never forgotten.