Dr. Nermin Lavapies Obituary, A Life of Compassion, Dedication, and Joy
Dr. Nermin Lavapies Obituary, Death- Dr. Nermin D. Lavapies, affectionately known as “Demi,” left an indelible mark on the medical community and the lives of those she touched. Born on April 5, 1932, in St. Etienne, France, her journey through life was marked by compassion, dedication to her profession, and an unwavering love for her family. At the age of three, Dr. Nermin’s family relocated to Turkey, where she excelled academically and eventually earned her medical degree from the University of Istanbul. In 1956, she embarked on a new chapter, joining Wheeling Hospital in Ohio Valley, where she began her illustrious career as a family physician. It was during her time at Wheeling Hospital that she met Dr. Felipe V. Lavapies, fondly referred to as “Dr. Lava,” whom she married in 1958. The couple welcomed their son, Stephen, in 1959. Dr. Nermin faced the challenges of being a single mother temporarily when Dr. Lava had to return to the Philippines due to visa complications. Despite the hardships, she persevered, demonstrating her resilience and dedication to both her family and her medical profession.
A Trailblazer in Medicine
Dr. Nermin’s contributions to the medical field extended beyond her role as a family physician. In the early 1960s, she transitioned to Ohio Valley General Hospital, where she worked in the emergency room and forged lifelong friendships. Her commitment to medicine was recognized when she became the first woman and first foreign graduate to serve on the board of the Ohio State Medical Association. Throughout her career, she maintained active memberships in the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association. Her passion for helping others extended to her role as a consulting physician at a drug and alcohol rehab center, showcasing her dedication to holistic healing.
Embracing Life’s Joys
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Nermin Lavapies embraced life’s simple pleasures. She found joy in large gatherings of friends, tending to her garden, a love for fashion, and a particular fondness for her numerous cats. Her diverse interests included travel, chocolate, baking desserts (especially baklava), and a special admiration for Roger Federer and Olympic figure skaters. In retirement, she divided her time between Palm Desert, CA, and Los Angeles, where she cherished moments with her granddaughters, Demi and Mina. After the passing of her husband in 2015, Dr. Nermin spent more time in Los Angeles, solidifying the importance of family bonds in her later years.
Continuing Her Legacy
Dr. Nermin Lavapies passed away on January 26, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and joy. She will be deeply missed by her family, including her son Stephen, granddaughters Demi and Mina, and her sister Sermin Büyükakinci in Istanbul, Turkey. Her impact also resonates with her niece, nephew, and grandniece, scattered across the globe. As friends and loved ones gather to celebrate her life at the Wilson Funeral Home in Brookside on February 6, 2024, and pay their respects during the wake service, it is clear that Dr. Nermin’s influence reached far beyond the walls of hospitals and medical institutions. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Belmont County Animal Shelter or Defenders of Wildlife, reflecting Dr. Nermin’s love for animals and commitment to environmental conservation. Dr. Nermin Lavapies will forever be remembered for her contributions to medicine, her nurturing spirit, and the joy she brought to the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of compassion and dedication will continue to inspire generations to come.
