Community Mourns Loss of Dedicated Nurse Maija Wheeler

Maija Wheeler, a beloved nurse and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully at home on December 22, 2025, after a prolonged battle with both dementia and leukemia. She was 82 years old at the time of her death, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment to healthcare.

Born on April 20, 1943, in Riga, Latvia, Maija experienced the challenges of World War II before immigrating to the United States with her mother and grandmother. The family settled in the Poughkeepsie area, where Maija would later pursue her education and career.

She graduated from Arlington High School in the Class of 1962 and continued her studies at Dutchess Community College and the Vassar School of Nursing. Her career in healthcare spanned over four decades, serving as the Infection Control Nurse at Northern Dutchess Hospital for 36 years before spending another seven years in the same role at Kingston Hospital.

Maija’s contributions to the nursing field were significant. She was known for her dedication to patient care and her ability to educate and mentor younger nurses. Her commitment earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community alike.

Outside of her professional life, Maija had a passion for travel and gardening. She enjoyed taking cruises and was particularly proud of her gardening skills, often sharing the beauty of her plants with friends and family.

Maija leaves behind her husband, Ralph Stickle, of Milan, NY; her daughter, Lisa Wheeler, of Salt Point, NY; and several siblings, including her brothers Janis Aivar Ronis and Guntis Berzins, and sister Ruta Ronis. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Taylor and Carly DiCapua, as well as her stepdaughter, Deborah Aldrich, and stepson, Gary Stickle. Maija was predeceased by her daughter, Daina Wheeler.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Burnett & White Funeral Homes in Red Hook, NY, on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. A special tribute service by the Hudson Valley Nurses Honor Guard will take place at 18:00 to honor her contributions to nursing. Burial will be private.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Burnett & White Funeral Homes, located at 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571. In memory of Maija, the family encourages contributions in the form of flowers or the planting of living memorials to celebrate her enduring spirit and love for life.