Obituary
Long time resident of Grimshaw, Alberta passed away on December 12, 2022, at Stonebrook at the age of 88 years.
Esme was born June 11, 1934, in Red Deer to Paul McGarvey Baker and May Baker nee: Adams. Raised on a farm 4 miles north of Ponoka. She attended a one room school with a teacher that taught grades 1-9. Esme and her two brothers, Stanley and Richard, took music lessons, attended church on Sundays and had a real love of the farm animals.
In 1955 Esme began a remarkable nursing career spanning 39 years. She had a real passion for learning. Obtaining diplomas in Registered Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing as well as a Diploma in Operative Aseptic Techniques. Her thesis covered a training program for students in the R.N. Program as well as a 12-week training period in Operating Room techniques. Esme devoted 12 years in Operating Room hospitals in Woodstock, Ontario, University of Alberta and the Royal Alexander. Then taught for 5 years as the Clinical Instructor for RNA’s at the Royal Alex and teaching Nursing Arts, Psychiatric, and Psychology classes for the Government of Alberta. Esme moved to the Peace Country and spent 10 years at the Peace River Hospital. The conclusion of her career was 6 years at the Peace River Correctional Institute.
Music was a true joy for Esme. She was a very accomplished pianist and organist. Starting in her teens, she played in church. She shared her talents for many years playing for church services, weddings and funerals.
In 1976, she married Roy. He brought ever-broadening interests into her life. There were many memorable travels as a family.
Esme retired in 1994. Volunteering her gift of nursing at wellness clinics. Sharing her music at senior’s recreational events, Eastern Star and of course church services, weddings and funerals. Roy and Esme were dedicated to the CNIB Seniors with Vision Loss Program and felt the folks they met were part of an extended family.
Esme’s largest source of gratitude came from family, friends and her cats. She enjoyed her small berry patch for solace.
Esme was predeceased by her beloved husband Roy. She is survived by daughter Veronica Bliska (Don) and grandchildren Joseph and Lauren, daughter Shirley Karseboom (Henry) grandchildren Nicolas and Emily.
Esme’s gracious talents and presence will be missed.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Chapel of Memories. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2023. Donations can be made on her behalf to the Alzheimer’s Society and/or Stonebrook.
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We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Esme May Nystrom June 11 1934 December 12 2022 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
Chapel of Memories Funeral Homes & Crematorium
Death notice for the town of: Peace River, Province: Alberta