Carol DeGroot Nickerson

Carol Nickerson(nee DeGroot)Peacefully, at home, on November 26, 2009, Carol Nickerson (DeGroot) was set free from this world to fly as an angel, to be with her maker.She was predeceased by her father, Robert DeGroot. She leaves behind, her mother, Dorothy, daughters Suzy (Barry), Roberta (Ernie), Donna (Joe), Laurel (Tim), son Nick (Dale), and her faithful companion, Sara (Our little moron!). She also leaves behind brothers, Dan, Ken and Gerry, and sisters, Linda, Debbie and Lynn, her ten grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.From 1967 to 1981, Mom worked at OBSCO Beauty Supply in Winnipeg as a clerk/accountant. After that time, Mom decided to move to North Vancouver. There she worked at Grouse Mountain Ski-Chalet as a clerk/accountant until ill health would no longer allow her to do so. Mom moved back home to her roots in Winnipeg and retired. She resided in her own home in South St. Vital.Mom was always a great provider and care giver, who was always there the best way she knew how to. Thru thick and thin, she raised her family on her own. Mom was our best friend and was the anchor for all of us. She was a very independent sole, who loved her family dearly, adored watching figure skating, golf, her flower gardens, caring for her dog and her home. Mom will be sadly missed and always loved and remembered by those of us who loved her dearly. A memorial service will take place at Green Acres Funeral Home on Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. Interment to follow in Green Acres Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Osteoporosis Foundation of Manitoba, 610 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0G5.We love you Mama!      “Seeing is believing.” For many, those words simply represent a motto. But for Carol Nickerson, it summarized in every way who she was. She was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around her and always thinking before acting. She was a realist, someone who was efficient and practical in everything she did. She was a friendly person who truly cared about those around her.       She was the daughter of Dorothy and Robert DeGroot. Raised in Winnipeg, she was brought up to be tolerant and trustworthy. As a child, she learned to be conscientious, responsible and punctual. These were all traits that she would carry with her throughout her life.      As a young girl, Carol was always aware of how others around her felt and this quality served her well. With a deep capacity to tolerate the feelings of others, Carol was generally able to avoid conflicts. It seemed as if Carol was the family member who was always working to keep stress at bay. Preferring a quiet environment where she could concentrate, Carol also had the ability to relate well with her family and friends. Carol was raised with five siblings. She had three brothers, Danny, Kenny, and Gerry, and two sisters Debbie and Linda. Carol was constantly involved in activities with her family. Carol and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up but they deeply cared for each other and shared many life experiences over the years.      Carol was a good mother to her children. She had “old fashioned” parental values and could handle typical family conflicts in a fair and calm manner. Because she trusted emotions, Carol was reluctant to force issues and used gentle persuasion to resolve situations. In this way she seemed to radiate an aura of warmth and caring to those around her, always thinking before acting. In addition, Carol was a master planner. No matter how hectic life around her might be, she seemed to know and track everyone’s schedule. Carol was blessed with five children, four daughters, Susan, Roberta, Donna and Laurel, and one son, Nick. They were also blessed with ten grandchildren, Christopher, Russell, Katy, Casey, David, Devon, Jordan, Jayden, Hannah and Megan.      Carol liked to experience things first hand, in addition to simply learning about them. This quality influenced Carol's choice of leisure time activities. A methodical and patient worker, Carol preferred to set aside uninterrupted time to work on her hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were walking and gardening. Carol was content to sit quietly alone, enjoying her hobbies all by herself and could often be found just reading about her favorite pastimes.      Carol had Sara, a black lab, who was her best friend for 6 years. Carol was as loyal to her pets as they were to her.      Carol passed away on November 26, 2009 at home. Carol fought a brave battle with Osteoporosis. She is survived by her children Susan, Nick, Roberta, Donna and Laurel; her grandchildren; and her brothers and sisters. Services were held at Green Acres Funeral Home & Cemetery. Carol was laid to rest in Green Acres Cemetery in Winnipeg, Manitoba.      It is said that some people can’t see the forest for the trees. Carol was able to focus on each individual tree, tending to its needs, thus making the forest stronger as a whole. Carol was a trustworthy, pragmatic and sympathetic person, the kind of woman to whom everyone was drawn. She was thorough and practical. Carol Nickerson was very literal with her words. You always knew where you stood with Carol. She will be missed.