Nancy Lee (VanWart) McCarthy

Nancy Lee (VanWart) McCarthy was born in Fredericton, NB on April 5, 1947. She was the oldest of three children born to John “Jack” Mitchell and Anna Clarice (Lee) VanWart.

Nancy’s greatest joy was her family, who will forever cherish her memory. Predeceased by her parents, she leaves behind her beloved husband of 48 years, Charles Frederick McCarthy, and their three sons: Michael (Holly), William (Gabriela), and John, along with four cherished grandsons – Andrew, Jacob, Levi, and Alexander – all of Calgary, AB.  She is also lovingly remembered by her brother, Bill (Brenda) VanWart of Mt. Uniacke, NS, and sister Janice (Brian Dingle) VanWart of Fredericton, NB.

Nancy spent her childhood in Fredericton, NB, growing up in a lovely home in the downtown area. Her family cherished joyful summers at Camp on McLaren’s Beach, Saint John, NB, where she loved to read and knit – a passion that earned her the affectionate nickname 'KnitterNanc'. These summers were filled with relaxing afternoons on the beach shared with family and friends, often followed by lively lobster or corn boils.

Nancy’s earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Brunswick and later a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto. She taught in Sussex, NB before returning to Fredericton where she worked as a librarian at the University of New Brunswick physics library. It was at the library where she met her future husband, Charlie.

Nancy and Charlie were married on May 14, 1977, in a small ceremony at Nancy’s family home in Fredericton, NB. In August 1980, they embarked on an memorable cross-Canada road trip in their “trusted” VW Rabbit, settling into a new life in Calgary, AB.

Her many interests included cooking and baking, reading, sewing, knitting and quilting. Nancy’s beautiful figure skater banner was featured during the1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Over the years, Nancy lovingly crafted beautiful sweaters, toques, mitts, and scarves for all of her children and eventually her grandchildren. Nancy’s greatest joy was to be surrounded by her family, gathering every Sunday night for a family dinner. Those dinners were a source of comfort and connection for everyone, and her presence was always the heart of the gathering.

Nancy faced numerous health challenges throughout her life including cancer, a pulmonary embolism, and pulmonary fibrosis. She met each challenge with remarkable courage and grace, inspiring those around her. 

The family would like to thank the many specialists who supported Nancy for many years, especially the wonderful staff at the Rockyview General Hospital who provided such loving care and support to Nancy and her family over the last four months. As Nancy has family and friends across Canada, in lieu of flowers, the family would ask any donations be contributed in her name to the Canadian Cancer Society www.cancer.ca or Canadian Lung Association www.lung.ca. No services are planned. 

Nancy’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
 

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