Community Mourns the Passing of Maija Wheeler at 82

Maija Wheeler, a beloved member of the Poughkeepsie community, passed away peacefully at home on December 22, 2025, at the age of 82. Her death followed a long and courageous battle with both dementia and leukemia. Maija’s life journey began on April 20, 1943, in Riga, Latvia, where she was born to the late Hugo and Valija Berzins during the turmoil of World War II.

In the aftermath of the war, Maija, along with her mother and grandmother, immigrated to the United States. They settled in the Poughkeepsie area, where Maija later graduated from Arlington High School in 1962. Her educational path continued at Dutchess Community College and Vassar School of Nursing, setting the stage for her impressive career in healthcare.

Dedicated Nursing Career

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 patient care made a significant impact in the community, earning her the admiration of colleagues and patients alike.

Outside of her professional life, Maija had a passion for travel and enjoyed taking cruises. She was particularly proud of her gardening, which reflected her nurturing spirit.

Maija is survived by her husband, Ralph Stickle, of Milan, New York; her daughter, Lisa Wheeler, of Salt Point, New York; and her brothers, Janis Aivar Ronis of Millbrook, New York, and Guntis Berzins of Riga, Latvia. She is also survived by her sister, Ruta Ronis, of Poughkeepsie, New York, and granddaughters Taylor and Carly DiCapua of Saugerties, New York. Additionally, her stepdaughter Deborah Aldrich and stepson Gary Stickle also mourn her loss along with many nieces and nephews.

Maija was predeceased by her daughter, Daina Wheeler, whose memory she held dear.

Final Farewell

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Burnett & White Funeral Homes in Red Hook, New York, on December 29, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. A tribute service by the Hudson Valley Nurses Honor Guard will take place at 18:00, honoring Maija’s contributions to nursing and her dedication to patient care.

Burial will be private, as the family wishes to keep that moment intimate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Burnett & White Funeral Homes, located at 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook, New York, 12571.

As the community reflects on Maija Wheeler’s legacy, her warmth, courage, and commitment to service will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.