NICHOLAS, Ida
December 1, 1922 − April 12, 2017
Ida passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness with cancer at Chinook Hospice in Calgary. Born in Lamoureux, Alberta to parents Omer and Alice Houle . Predeceased by three brothers in infancy, her father in 1984, mother in 1985, brother Emile in 1989, sister Lucienne in 2004, sister Blandine in 2008. Also predeceased by her first husband John N. Page in 1965, a second husband Arthur E. Nicholas in 1975, and dear friend Laurier Graville in 1999. Her son, John Nicholas Page, passed away in White Rock, B.C. in 2015, at the age of 70. Survived by her brother Frank Houle of Fort Saskatchewan, daughter Jacqueline Page, daughter−in−law Sandra (John) Page of Calgary. Also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews throughout Canada and the States.
Ida graduated from Normal School in Edmonton and began teaching in the one room schoolhouse of St. Emile in Legal, Alberta. She would return to teaching French in Calgary Public Schools after the death of her first husband, John N. Page; retiring after her marriage to Art Nicholas. After Arts’ passing, Ida travelled and immersed herself in volunteer activities. Many winters were spent salmon fishing off the coastal waters of B. C. with companion Laurie. She would return to the Houle homestead to help her brother Frank with the spring planting and the fall harvest for decades.
Ida was a beautiful and inspiring soul to her family and all who knew her, her grace, kindness and ready smile will not be forgotten. She rose to life challenges with faith and a positive attitude. The family gives thanks to the exceptional staff at Chinook Hospice, Dr, Tina Hoang, the Foothills Palliative Care Team, and to the staff at Scenic Acres Retirement Residence. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Mustard Seed Foundation, or a charity of your choice. Cremation through the Calgary Memorial Society and McInnis & Holloway. Memorial service to be held at St. Matthew’s United Church, 2035 26A Street, SW, Calgary, Wednesday, April 19th, at 2: 00 pm with The Rev. John Crowdis officiating. Refreshments to follow.