McIver, Vera Elizabeth, C.M.R.N., M.R.N. (nee Dombowsky) passed away on May 31, 2009 in Victoria. She was born on May 11, 1916 in Avonlea, Sask. Predeceased by her parents, siblings, and husband, John who was born in P.E.I. in 1905, Vera is survived by her daughter Ruth, son-in-law John, and dear friend Rolly.
Vera graduated as a nurse from Regina Grey Nuns’ Hospital in 1941 and remained involved in nursing until 1979. In 1967, she began a program for seniors in long term care at the Priory. Here she revolutionized the care of seniors for which she received national and international recognition. She became a noted author and lecturer and received many accolades and awards, the most notable being the Order of Canada in 1986. In 1986, she was asked to establish the Roman Catholic Diocesan archives and remained involved until 2006.
Funeral service will be held on June 5th at 2:00 at Sacred Heart Parish, 4440 Nelthorpe Street, Victoria, B.C. followed by a reception at the Wellesley, 2800 Blanshard St. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the poor of the city.
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Olga Brown (nee Nikulin)
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Pauline James I met Vera only twice, first in the late 1970’s and again early in the 1980’s regarding her approach to caring for seniors while she worked for the Juan de Fuca Hospital Society, and I was a member of the Canadian Association on gerontology. She truly revolutionized the delivery of sensitive and home-like care for seniors in residential care settings. I have never forgotten her and thank her for her wonderful and caring contribution to the care of seniors that has been replicated in many places to this day.
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David Stevenson I am writing to extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family. I was so very sad to hear about your mothers passing.
My Simpathy and Sincere regards,
David Stevenson
Dear Ruth and family
From Cousin Olga and family in Australia
I have only just heard about the passing of your mother Vera in 2009. I was reading through “Quest for Freedom” again and marvelling at the information contained therein.
I am so grateful to her for leaving this record for our families as well as for her correspondence with my mother Val Nikulin for many years.
I was lovely to meet you when you came to Australia. I remember one rainy night when you and I drove an hour away to Buderim to see a unit I was about to buy.
I hope you’re well and happy. Sorry about the passing of your mother Vera.
Love from Olga