Valerie Colleen McKay

It is with a broken heart that I announce the passing of my wife, Valerie McKay (nee McArthur) on May 21, 2023, at the age of 64, with her husband Dale and son James by her side. Eldest son Forbes was travelling at the time of her passing.

Valerie was born in Nanaimo on April 14, 1959, and lived most of her life in Nanaimo. She was predeceased by her father Colin in January of 2020 and most recently her mother Sheila in March of 2023.

Valerie was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1987, but she never let it define her or who she wanted to be. She married and raised two sons, who were her pride and joy. When she became a single parent, she often struggled to make ends meet, but created a loving home for herself and her sons.

Serious health issues forced Valerie to move into Wexford Creek, a long-term care residence. Soon after, she met the love of her life, Dale McKay, who worked as a care aid. It was love at first sight. They married in 2018 and moved to an apartment in Nanaimo, surrounded by trees and wildlife and spent over four years together there in wedded bliss.

Valerie is survived by her husband Dale, sons Forbes Robinson (Evelyn) and James Robinson (Michelle) and grand-daughter Malea. She is also lovingly remembered by sisters Laurinda Heiberg (Dave) and Julia McArthur, as well as nephews and nieces, uncle and cousins.

Valerie had a knack for making friends wherever she went and she leaves behind a large group of friends, some of whom she has know since high school.

Valerie was an inspiration of courage and strength, and the world is a sadder place without Valerie in it, but she is now running in heaven, free of the constraints that held her back for so many years, and will one day will see her love, Dale, on the beach so that they may be together again.

The family would like to thank those that cared for Valerie through the years, especially her care workers who cared for her with such love and compassion.