Valerie Irene McClelland

Valerie Irene McClelland, aged 82, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2018 with her daughter by her side at Hogarth Riverview Manor in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Val was born May 14, 1935 in Fort Frances, Ontario. She managed the Tuck Shop at McKellar Hospital prior to becoming a Ward Clerk in ICU, a position she held for 20 years until her retirement. She was a member of St. Thomas Anglican Church, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary at McKellar Hospital, as well as a volunteer at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

Val loved to cook and entertain for family and friends. She held the best dinner parties, which were enjoyed by all. Val always looked forward to her annual trips to Arizona with her longtime friend Myrna Milroy.

Val will be sadly missed by her daughter Nicola Novak and son Chris Novak (Carole); sisters Doris Kawulia (Winnipeg, MB), Deidre Strain (Fort Frances, ON); sister-in-law Helen Lichtenstein (Chemainus, BC) as well as nieces, nephews, step-children, step-grandchildren and other relatives. Predeceased by her parents Ernie and Margaret Lichtenstein; first husband Mickey Novak (1981), second husband Jack McClelland (1981); brother Bill Lichtenstein (2015), son John Novak (1968); daughter Willa Novak (1981) and brothers-in-law Bud Strain and Butch Kawulia.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a private burial ceremony at Mountain View Cemetery where Val will be laid to rest with her late husband Jack.

If so desired, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay.