Claire Mickelson

Claire passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, in Vernon, BC, at the age of 96. Born on November 17, 1929, in The Pas, Manitoba.

Claire spent her early childhood in the small community of Pine Bluff, Man., a childhood shaped by community and the rhythms of the land. At ten, illness took her far from home to the Catholic Sanitorium in St. Boniface, where she spent five long years in the care of the Grey Nuns. Those early trials forged in her a deep resilience — a quiet strength that would guide her through every chapter of her life.

As a young woman working as a waitress in The Pas, Claire met the love of her life, Ole Mickelson. They married on her Birthday in 1956, and soon began building a life together in Herb Lake (Wekusko), Man., where their sons Alain and Mikkel were born. In 1962, the family moved to a farm in Moosomin, Sask., and welcomed their daughter, Florence Kari. Their lives took them next to Salmon Arm, BC, in 1967, before returning to farming in Moosomin in 1972. After many hardworking years on the land, Claire and Ole retired from farming in 1981 and settled in Nipawin, Sask. Ole passed away in September 1989, a loss Claire carried with grace and quiet courage.

In 1990, Claire moved to Vernon, BC, to be closer to her family, beginning a new chapter rooted in community, faith, and the simple joys she loved most.

Claire was a gifted seamstress, creating beautiful clothing for herself and her family. She knitted, crocheted, and took great pride in her appearance — a reflection of her care, creativity, and attention to detail. She returned to nursing in 1974, working at the Moosomin Hospital and later the Nipawin Nursing Home, where she found deep fulfillment in caring for others.

Her home was always filled with the comforting smells of baking — cakes, loaves of bread, and warm buns that became family favourites. She tended her vegetable garden with love and canned fruit each season, ensuring her pantry was always full. Hospitality came naturally to her; she delighted in preparing meals and welcoming family and friends who stopped by for a visit.

Faith was a cornerstone of Claire’s life. She was a devoted member of the Catholic Church and took joy in participating in Catholic Women’s League fundraising projects and community activities.

In her later years, Claire moved to Columbus Court Housing in 2018 and then to Heritage Square Senior Living in 2021, where she lived with dignity and grace until her passing.

Claire was predeceased by her husband Ole and their children Mikkel, Joseph, and Marlene. She is survived by her son Alain Mickelson and daughter Kari Mickelson as well her sister Marie Tetarenko, sister-in-law Lila Mickelson, five Grandchildren Scott, Mikkel, Kris, Kim and Alicia, three Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. They carry forward her legacy of strength, kindness, and quiet perseverance.

She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her devotion to family, her faith, and the countless ways she nurtured those around her, and who met life’s hardships with unwavering strength and grace. Her memory will continue to warm the hearts of those who loved her.

An interment will occur at a later date, in Dahlton, Sask. where Claire’s husband Ole is buried.

Alain and Kari wish to thank Dr. Iredia, and the Heritage Square Staff.  A special thank you to nurse Suzanne, Nurse Nancy and at the front desk Cherry.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-558-0866

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: