Pauline H. Hopkins Van Nuis

Pauline died on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at Mt. Miguel Covenant in San Diego, CA. She was 88 years old. Pauline fought a long spirited battle against cancer. Throughout her life she radiated positivity, strength and care for others. Even while ill, she never quit caring for her family and others; she wouldn’t rest until she knew everyone was okay. Her compassion and generous spirit remained unwavering to the very end.

Pauline was born on December 23, 1926 in Bud, West Virginia. She was the second youngest of 12 children. Throughout her childhood, Pauline encountered hardships and challenges, but her focus remained fixated on a flourishing future. Having lost her mother at a young age, Pauline and her older sisters, Bernie and Opal, grew extremely close. Their bond was built with a shared openhearted optimism, albeit with a pinch of mischief. Pauline’s eyes would often twinkle as she shared stories of their antics growing up. But she was always a storyteller, welcoming the chance to share laughs, memories, and bits of wisdom from her time in the service, as a caretaker for the developmentally disabled, or just some lessons on living. She was well known for her love and laughter, joking, and general joy she brought to others.

She loved the holidays, especially July 4th. She used to say one of the best treats on the fourth was enjoying a patriotic parade and eating homemade ice cream. She joined the Army (WACS) when she was very young. She always had a special love for medicine, and thought this was a good way to learn and serve others.

When she was discharged, she moved to San Diego with her sisters where she met her husband Richard (Dick). Dick and Pauline were married for 55 years and had 5 children: Rick, Regina, Roberta, Randy, and Rory. Pauline worked endlessly to make sure her children had a home full of loving support. She organized neighborhood events like Christmas caroling (making homemade donuts and hot chocolate for treats), volunteered at school PTAs, and so much more.

Pauline’s impact on the community extended far beyond, as she worked tirelessly to care for the developmentally disabled. She would ensure the developmentally disabled had social activities to attend, and worked with volunteers to renovate facilities needed for the disabled programs. For nearly 40 years, Pauline was a care provider for developmentally disabled men. In addition to her determined dedication to others, she also inspired members of her family and friends to donate time and love to those that need it.

In this way, she handed down her compassion and caring spirit to her children and grandchildren. She was a fierce, stubborn fighter who cared deeply for what she believed in and taught her children and grandchildren that they could accomplish anything they set their minds to. Most of all, she believed in being kind, and being steadfast in your beliefs. Her motto was ‘you are no better than anyone and no one is better than you’.

Her surviving family members are numerous, but mainly include:

Children and their spouses: Rick Van Nuis, Regina and Dan Lauridsen,

Roberta Van Nuis, Randy and Marjorie Van Nuis, Rory and Vickie Van Nuis

Grandchildren: Joe Cargel, Richie and Danny Lauridsen, Hunter and Sara Van Nuis, Jeremiah Van Nuis, and Preston DeVoss

Great Grandchildren: Wyatt Cargel and Berkeley Van Nuis

We are greatly appreciative of the outpouring of love and support we have received from many people. It brings us peace to know that Pauline is now with her husband and family members who preceded her in passing. We will always remember her love of conversation, laughter, compassion and the joy she took in making her family and others happy.

We love you Mom.