Vallija (Kirsons) Grauds, born July 30, 1927, passed away peacefully at LHSC – Victoria Hospital on Sunday, December 1, 2024 at the age of 97. Survived by her daughter Sandra, her three grandchildren, Corrina, Steven, and Amanda, and her six great-grandchildren, Valija, Mika, Luci, Rese, Gus, and Levko.
Despite the trauma of war she endured in her adolescence, Vallija devoted her talents, energy, and her life to healing the traumas of others. As the head of nursing in London, she mentored generations of young professionals in the science of medicine, the lives they continue to save and heal to this day are a testament to the positive impact she had on her community.
Vallija’s greatest legacy is her strength, courage, rebelliousness and resilience. She was and remains a leader. In the post-war period, she rejected society’s expectation that she should forgo a career and remain at home. As a strong independent woman, she continues to serve as a role model for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Vallija was also a gifted culinarian who showed her love through delicious foods, passing down traditional Latvian recipes. Her family keeps these things in mind as they pay tribute to her in their thoughts and reminiscences.
Cremation has taken place. A private interment will be held at Woodland Cemetery where Vallija will be laid to rest beside her late husband Harijas.
As Villija was a victim of Russian occupation, the family would appreciate PayPal donations to Front Line Kit to support Ukraine’s struggle for freedom.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Pat Merrifield
Mrs Grauds was my manager for many years when I was a staff nurse and later Team Leader both in the ICU and CCU at University Hospital. She was a true professional with high standards she expected all to uphold. She taught me so much. One piece of advice that I have never forgotten was “When you’re right stick to your guns”. My sincere condolences to her family. She was a wonderful woman.
Gail Janus
Mrs. Grauds was my Manager when I was a Team Leader in the ICU at University Hospital (1976 – 1984). ‘Mrs. G’, as we fondly called her, was a strong leader and mentor with very high expectations. She always encouraged me to pursue my leadership and management skills which I did with success. Mrs. Grauds was one of a kind and it was my privilege to have known her.
Lynda Monik
Mrs. Grauds was my Manager, when I was employed as a nurse in the ICU at University Hospital. When chosing to purse a management position, she gave me the “best” advice ever, which I have stated over and over again and again. Mrs. Grauds, thank YOU for making a difference in my life and those who benefitted from your guidance.