Sheila Kay Szalai's Obituary
Sheila Kay Szalai (née DuCharme), aged 60, passed away on February 5, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida. Born on March 30, 1964, in Dearborn, Michigan, Sheila dedicated her life to nurturing both her family and her community through her extensive career in nursing.
Sheila's academic journey began at Trenton High School in Trenton, Michigan, and she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Northern Michigan University followed by a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University. Her professional career was marked by significant contributions to several prestigious institutions including Marquette General Hospital, University of Michigan Medical Center, Indiana University Medical Center, Eli Lilly Corporation, Advanced Healthcare Associates, Florida Correctional Facility Medical Staff, and Veterans Evaluations of Florida, where she worked until 2024.
A loving mother, grandmother, and a caring nurse, Sheila adored her husband, Paul A. Szalai, and cherished her children, Sarah Farahat and Nicholas Szalai along with her daughter-in-law, Nikki Szalai. Sheila's life was also enriched by the presence of her sisters, Linda Ellen, Diana Daniel, and Sandra Humbarger. Her family circle extended to eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who brought immense joy into her life. Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Vincent and Marjorie DuCharme, brothers Timmie and Martin DuCharme, and one great grandchild.
Sheila's hobbies included traveling, visiting zoos and aquariums, frequenting casinos, and fishing, activities that reflected her adventurous spirit and love for nature. Her compassionate nature extended to animals, often befriending any four-legged creature she encountered.
In remembrance of Sheila's love for marine life, contributions can be made to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater, Florida. The Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home in Lakeland, Florida, is assisting the family during this time.
Sheila's legacy as a caring and competent nurse, along with her devotion to her family and community, will forever be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.
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