CONNOLLY, VERONICA A. "VON" RN (RET) - Von passed away peacefully at York Manor in the presence of family members following a brief illness. Von was born in Minto, New Brunswick, in 1931 and was predeceased by father, Leo, mother, Lillian, sisters Joan (Gillis), Marie (Zalenski), Eulla and Eunice (Mercier) and brothers Gregory, Francis and Dan. Von is survived by brother Ian (Laura) and sister Maureen (Thomas Swift), nephew, Gregory Gillis (Diane) together with many nephews, nieces and cousins. Von trained as a nurse at the Hotel Dieu Hospital in Edmundston and following graduation practiced nursing, primarily in Minto. Her involvement as a community nurse extended well beyond normal working hours. She and her cousin, the late Janet Hartt, exemplified nursing service in their home town. One major factor in Von's life was her focus on others. Whether as a nursing professional, close friend, relative or member of her church or civic community, her characteristic attention to the well being of others certainly marked her life. Her focus on others was recognised in the Spring of 1996 by the Village of Minto through the United Nations Award of Merit. The Award was presented for her work with various activities and organisations, especially in the field of health care. Von worked as a nurse in the Minto area since the early 1950's. She was also involved with education, orientation and training of other nurses and health care workers. Von was a member of the Health Region 3 Education Committee for several years , which in part looked after the training of nurses in the region including Fredericton Junction, Stanley, Harvey and McAdam. Von was involved with many volunteer organisations over the years. These included the organization of the first senior citizens clubs in Chipman and Minto; Community Based Services for Seniors; community based policing; the Heart and Stroke Foundation: and the local literacy Council. Von had a strong love for children, with special relationships and influences in the lives of her many nieces, nephews and cousins. She forged special memories with them at Tranquillity, her beloved family cottage at Grand Lake. Her imagination and strong Irish roots came through with her many stories. Von enjoyed travelling, in particular meeting people from different countries. Her travels took her to England, Ireland, Iceland, Barbados, St. Pierre, and Miquelon and through many provinces of Canada and US States. Von even attended the launch of one of the earliest space shuttles from Cape Canaveral. A few years ago, Von entered the York Manor Care facility, first as a patient in the Alzheimer's unit (the Atrium) and most recently in the Waterloo Unit, Tower 2. Von was curious by nature and was committed to life long learning. In her later years she continued to exhibit her interest in and concern for others during her stay at York Manor and her circle of friends grew. Von’s family would like to extend thanks to the wonderful staff at York Manor, particularly the Atrium and Tower 2. Their professionalism, nurturing nature and attention to her needs provided a comfortable and caring home for Von.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute to the Connolly Bursary in Nursing at the University of New Brunswick, York Manor or a charity of their choice. Resting at Hogg’s Funeral Services in Minto with visiting on Monday, June 18, 2012 from 7 to 9 PM. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from Holy Rosary Church at 11 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012. Interment will follow at the Parish Cemetery.