Maija Wheeler, a dedicated nurse and beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully at her home on December 22, 2025, after a prolonged battle with dementia and leukemia. She was 82 years old. Born on April 20, 1943, in Riga during World War II, Maija’s early life was shaped by the tumultuous events of the era.
Following the end of the war, Maija, along with her mother, Valija, and grandmother, immigrated to the United States. They settled in the Poughkeepsie area, where Maija later graduated from Arlington High School in the Class of 1962. She pursued further education at Dutchess Community College and the Vassar School of Nursing, eventually dedicating her career to healthcare.
For 36 years, Maija served as the Infection Control Nurse at Northern Dutchess Hospital, followed by another seven years in the same role at Kingston Hospital. Her commitment to nursing was evident in her work, making a significant impact on the lives of many patients and their families.
Outside of her professional life, Maija enjoyed traveling, particularly cruises, and took great pride in her gardening. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her career and hobbies, as she was a loving mother and grandmother.
Maija is survived by her husband, Ralph Stickle, of Milan, New York; her daughter, Lisa Wheeler, of Salt Point, New York; two brothers, Janis Aivar Ronis of Millbrook, New York, and Guntis Berzins of Riga, Latvia; a sister, Ruta Ronis, of Poughkeepsie, New York; and her granddaughters, Taylor and Carly DiCapua, of Saugerties, New York. Maija also leaves behind her stepdaughter, Deborah Aldrich, of Saugerties, New York, and stepson, Gary Stickle, of Cary, North Carolina, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Maija was predeceased by her daughter, Daina Wheeler. Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects at Burnett & White Funeral Homes in Red Hook, New York, on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. The Hudson Valley Nurses Honor Guard will honor Maija with a tribute service at 18:00. Burial will be private, as per her wishes.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Burnett & White Funeral Homes, located at 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571. Those wishing to honor Maija’s memory may consider making a memorial contribution or planting a living memorial in her name. Her legacy as a compassionate nurse and loving family member will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
