Valerie Tibbs

March 25, 1948 - March 07, 2025

It’s with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Valerie Tibbs on March 07, 2025 with her husband Paul and family members by her side. Valerie fought a long and courageous battle with cancer.

At a young age Val attended hairdressing school in Winnipeg. After receiving her hair dresser’s license, Valerie returned to Thunder Bay and worked at a number of salons, before opening her own salon which she operated for over 50 years. Even after her diagnosis of cancer Valerie continued on in her salon, almost to the end. Val was very close with all of her clients. She was known by everyone for her generous, loving and caring ways. Always willing to be there and go out of her way to help others. And of course bringing someone, somewhere, some of her delicious baked goods.

She enjoyed being in her backyard tending to her beautiful flower gardens and filling the many bird feeders. Val was a huge lover of nature and wildlife. She would always have pockets of peanuts and snacks for all of  the birds and animals while out on her daily walks with her precious Molly. Val loved being in their boat with Paul and Molly hauling in walleye after walleye. But, she was at her happiest, in her craft room, designing beautiful artistically designed greeting cards, for all occasions. She created and gifted hundreds of wonderfully designed cards for family, friends and neighbours.

Valerie will be sadly missed by her husband Paul and her son Mark. Brothers Bruce (Patty) and Brian. Sisters-in-law Gaye and Linda, brother-in-law Mel. Numerous nieces and nephews.

The Lee Family, Madonna, Geoff, Claire, Rachel, Grace and Ava. You became Val’s surrogate daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren she never had. She loved and cherished you all dearly.

Paul’s family and dear friends Linda, Jyl and Barb. Everyone’s continuous visits and support throughout her battle were greatly appreciated. Val loved all of your visits and conversations.

Valerie was predeceased by her parents Roy and Lucinda. Sisters Judith and Shirley. Brothers Leigh and Roger. Sister-in-law Tracey.

Val will be reunited with beloved Molly and be able to take her for their daily walks again.

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful doctors and nurses in the cancer clinic.
Oncologist Dr. Ibrahim
Palliative care Dr’s Simpson & Ward
Family Dr. Jennifer Swerdlyk
Family Dr. Jennifer Atwood
All the doctors and nurses on the oncology ward 1A at the TBRHSC
And especially all of the wonderful doctors and nurses at St. Joseph’s Hospital hospice care ward. We can’t thank you all enough for the care and compassion you showed and gave Valerie and her family while there.

In keeping with Valerie’s wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no service or celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers donations to
Hospice Northwest
Thunder Bay Cancer Centre
St. Joseph’s Hospital (Hospice care)
or any animal care facility of your choice would be greatly appreciated!

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.