Resident Feature: Nancy Wallace

Nancy Wallace was born in Auckland New Zealand, the third daughter in a family of four sisters. She was brought up by their widowed mother Kathleen in times that were very tough for a solo parent. With no government support, the responsibility of raising a large family fell directly on her mother’s shoulders. Despite these hardships her mother raised four very strong capable young women.

Nancy went to Ponsonby Primary school and then onto Auckland Girls Grammar where she studied Pittman’s shorthand and typing. These skills were put to great use throughout her working life.

Always considered a great carer, Nancy began her nursing training with her sister Peg during the war years. She would spend her days training, studying and after her shifts would visit the sick children in the wards, bringing joy to these children by reading them stories and cuddling the babies.

After completing her study Nancy had planned to use her new found skills to travel to different countries, however this plan was short lived as Nancy met her husband Duncan and her life set off in a new direction. Together Nancy & Duncan raised a family of six children, Andrew the eldest and only son followed by five daughters, Adrienne, Janet, Christine, Karen and Jo.

They lead a simple and happy life, with Nancy initially a stay at home Mum. Gradually she re-entered the workforce, starting with secretarial work for the local Presbyterian minister. She then went on to manage the office at St Helen’s Maternity Hospital, and then the Cardiology administration at Greenlane Hospital. Aside from her working life Nancy had plenty of hobbies. She enjoys crocheting and is a lover of books, a trait she has passed down to all her children. She has also performed in multiple theatrical shows.

Nancy and Duncan moved to Australia in their later years and settled in Coolum where they lived together enjoying the relaxed beach lifestyle until Duncan passed away in 1999. Nancy then moved to the Gold Coast to be closer to her family. This family has grown over the years and Nancy is now Grandmother to 11 children and Great grand mother to another 8.

She is described by her children as someone who is dearly loved by all, someone who has always been there for them in difficult situations and times of need. A great character with a cheeky sense of humour.

From all the staff and residents at HillView Care we would like to wish Nancy a Happy 100th Birthday this month, and congratulate her on this amazing milestone.