Our cherished Nicole passed away peacefully on September 28, 2022 at the age of 65.
Left to mourn is her heart-broken husband and soulmate, William Baker and large and close-knit family who supported her steadfastly in her final days. She leaves to grieve her three adored children Laure Émilie Pitfield (Sarah), Weldon Pitfield, and Anthony Pitfield (Caitlin), step-children Gregory Baker (Julia), Michael Baker (Amanda) and Stephen Baker, as well as six adored grandchildren Rylan, Jack, Aurora, Ella, Eléonore and Catherine. Nicole will also be dearly missed by her mother, Renée, sisters Lucie (Daniel), Josée (John) and her brother Jean-Pierre (Barbara) and many nieces and nephews.
Born in Rouyn, Quebec, she was the eldest child of Renée and the late Pierre Jauvin. The family moved to Ottawa in 1962 where Nicole grew up in a loving home and pursued her education and career.
A lawyer by training, Nicole brought her intelligence, judgement, and enthusiasm to a career in the Public Service of Canada that spanned several decades and began in the Privy Council Office, where she spent 17 years providing machinery of government, national security and senior personnel advice to five successive Prime Ministers. She was then appointed to several deputy minister positions.
Following her retirement in 2011, Nicole sat on corporate boards in Canada’s north including the Gwich’in Economic Development Corporation and the Qulliq Energy Corporation thus cementing a deep connection to Canada’s indigenous people. She also volunteered on the CHEO Research Institute Board for nine years. Most recently, she led a Canada-sponsored judicial reform project in the Caribbean. In each of these roles, Nicole welcomed the chance to do something new and exciting and to contribute her knowledge and expertise.
Her greatest love was her large and close family. In her own words, her greatest purpose in life was to raise her children and grandchildren with kind hearts, strong values, and a sense of commitment to their country and communities. She was happiest being surrounded by family and friends at her cottage on Hardwood Lake in Val des Monts. Nicole and Bill were also active members of the Five Lakes Fishing Club where they forged many of their closest friendships.
In retirement, Nicole and Bill travelled extensively visiting dozens of countries and fully experiencing their culture, language, cuisine, and people. She was happiest in Spain, where they returned many years with dear friends, the Amigos.
Nicole was our brilliant star and she burned brightly to the end. Her light will guide us and give us warmth forever.
Digital Guestbook
Judith Stoler
Margaret Harvey-O'Kelly and Kevin O'Kelly
Words cannot express how sad we are to hear about Nicole's passing. She was always such a joy to be with and shared so many laughs with us. Gone too soon. We are thinking of Bill especially and know he is heartbroken. You are in our thoughts Bill. We cannot begin to imagine how difficult this path must be. With much love to you from us. Margaret and Kevin.
Davie Duncan
RIP Dear Nicola, taken from us far too early. My deepest condolences go out to all of Nicole’s family. Nicole, I know you will be guiding us going forward as you have so many times. Thank you for your wonderful and thoughtful friendship over the years. You will be dearly missed. Until we meet again. Big Hugs. Sincerely yours. Amigo Davie
Celine Gaulin and David Wilson
Bill and Nicole were a very loving couple. As neighbours we also had the opportunity to know Nicole as a busy retiree who found time for yoga, bike riding, enjoying children, step children and grandchildren and so many other activities- with Bill usually by her side.
Throughout her illness, Nicole was positive, courageous and always ready to share a smile and kind words with neighbours. We were fortunate to know Nicole and will miss her.
Our heartfelt condolences to Bill and family.
Celine and david
Guy Proulx
Quelle tristesse. Nous souhaitons plein de courage à Bill et toute la famille en ces moments si difficiles. Nos plus sincère condoléances. Suzanne et Guy.
Chantal Babineau et Denis Boucher Val dor
Mes sympathies à son mari ses enfants ainsi que Renée, Lucie , Josée et Jean-Pierre.
Mary & Ian Glen
Bill, our hearts break with yours. What a beautiful life Nicole lived, making so many contributions to so many, in her career, communities of interest, her friends and above all, her family. We mourn with you and yours, offering prayers and sending love. Mary & Ian
Allyson Domanski
On behalf of the Board and members of l’Association des Propriétaires des Trois Lacs, of which Nicole was an active member, we extend our sincerest condolences to Bill and the whole Jauvin-Baker family. The loss of our friend and lovely cottage neighbour takes away an avid voice and contributor at meetings. We are so sorry for your loss, her presence will indeed be missed.
Allyson Domanski,
President of l’Association des Propriétaires des Trois Lacs
Bev & Serge Lacasse
Bill, our condolences to you and your family. Nicole was a remarkable woman. As Nat King Cole sang in the classic song, Nicole is "Unforgettable". Her memory will live forever. Bill you are in our thoughts often and we hope you find comfort in remembering your life together.
Rick Boychuk
Nicole was always so cheerful and welcoming. She'll be missed by the many people she touched with her good nature. Condolences, Bill.
Nicole, we who so enjoyed knowing you will miss your sweet smile and your hearty laugh. "May flights Angels sing thee gently to thy rest."