With family by her side, we sadly announce that Coreen Renee O’Connor (nee Szlauko) passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2018 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre in Thunder Bay, Ont.
Coreen was born on Jan. 10, 1967 in Baudette, Mn. and raised in Rainy River, Ont. At a very young age, Coreen was given the nickname Nee-nee (or Neen), which is how she will be remembered by most.
Growing up, she loved figure skating, as well as spending time at the lot and at Gramma and Grampa’s cabin on Rocky. Coreen loved the water and would spend hours in the lake and, as an adult, loved her pool.
At 11 years old, Coreen was a “Candy Striper” and one of only two girls who put in more than 200 hours.
Coreen graduated from Rainy River High School in 1984. Given her kind and caring nature, and passion for taking care of others, it was no surprise that when she moved to Thunder Bay, she studied nursing.
Coreen graduated from the Registered Nursing Assistant Program in 1986. She worked as a nurse for 30 years throughout Thunder Bay, treating each and every patient with compassion and sincerity.
Coreen had the most incredible sense of humour. In a very short time, she could have a room full of people laughing until they cried. She was fearless with her jokes and would laugh along with you.
She also loved to dress up and would celebrate any occasion or party. Her joy of life was infectious.
Time spent with Coreen over a cup of coffee while she knitted or crocheted her latest project was time well-spent. She genuinely was interested in spending time with you and you knew it.
On Sept. 11, 1999, Coreen married Kenny O’Connor and they were blessed with their son, Tyler, daughter Paige, and step-son, Kenny. Coreen’s kindness and compassion as a nurse was reflected in the tender care she provided to her children.
Coreen also is survived by her mother, Gayleen Szlauko (nee Gunderson) and father, William Szlauko; brother, Bob Szlauko; sister, Sandy (Tim) Spence; brother-in-law, Dennis (Shelley) O’Connor; sister-in-law, Kelly Wilson (Stephen); as well as her aunts, uncles, nephews, and cousins.
Coreen also will be missed by her beloved furry companion, Scooby.
She was predeceased by her grandparents, Ann and Magnus Gunderson and Anna and Paul Szlauko; and brother-in-law, Patrick O’Connor.
Look back upon your time with Nee-nee with smiles and laughter. She had a gift of making us laugh and we shall continue on with her legacy.
Funeral services and a celebration of Coreen’s life were held on Oct. 15, 2018 in Thunder Bay.
Should friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to George Jeffrey Children’s Foundation.
Donations can be sent by mail to 200 E Brock St., Thunder Bay, Ont., P7E 0A2 or online at http://georgejeffreyfoundation.com/pages/view/ways-to-give
COREEN RENEE O’CONNOR
