Obituary of Nicole M. McLarty

It is with profound sadness that the family of Nicole announces her passing after a long and valiant battle with cancer. Left to mourn her loss is her husband, Barry, and her daughter, Laura, who she is so very proud of. Nicki was the daughter of the late Tony Valade, late Irene Shami, and the late Nick Shami. Daughter-in-law of the late Keith McLarty and the late Dorothy McLarty. Sister of Rose Marie Valade, Marcel Valade (Fran) and Madeleine Jobb (late Kevin). Sister-in-law of Cathy (CJ) McLarty. Aunt of Nathalie Rahilly (Warren Pearce), Emelie Rahilly (Alon HaCohen), Anthony Valade, Samantha Jobb, Jonathon Jobb and Maggie McLarty (Nina Beatty).

After graduating from Mount St. Joseph College, Nicki trained as a RN at St. Joseph's Regional School of Nursing, in London, ON. She returned to the Soo and continued her nursing career at the General Hospital before retiring from the amalgamated Sault Area Hospital. She had a great love and respect for her co-workers and continued many of these friendships into retirement.

Nicki devoted her life to caring for others. She was always ready to respond with a card, a little personal gift or simply a hug whenever a friend or loved one needed to know that someone cared for them. When faced with a personal or health problem, Nicki never allowed herself more than a few minutes of down time. Then, in true nurse fashion, she would assess the situation, determine the resources she had to work with, and get busy with a plan to move forward. Nicki was the rock that others leaned on in time of need.

Nicki was very proud to be a Registered Nurse, and she was equally proud of all of the Sault Area Hospital RN's, RPN's and PSWs who took care of her in Emerg, in the 3B / 3C Medical units, and during her treatments at the Cancer Centre (especially Allie). Also deserving of thanks are the Bayshore Home Care nurses (especially Sue) and those working in other settings (especially Megan at GHC). You all demonstrated care, compassion and professionalism that allowed her to face her final challenges with dignity. 

We would also like to thank Nicki’s physicians. To Dr. S. Spadafora, thank you for your tireless efforts on Nicki’s behalf. You gave us the gift of time and we are so grateful. Thank you Dr. N. Apostle for helping Nicki to manage the pain that accompanies cancer.  And to Dr. S. White, your ability to listen and offer wise and gentle guidance helped us through a very difficult time. 

Finally, to our friends and family, your love and support means so much to us. You are there for us in good times and bad and we love you all.

At Nicki's request, no services will be held. If you feel so inclined, the family would appreciate your support of the Sault Area Hospital Cancer Care Fund or the Health Sciences North Foundation – Northern Cancer Fund.

Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758).