It is with great sadness that the family of Bernice Deswiage announce the passing of our wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother on September 8th, 2015 with her family by her side.
She was born on December 18th, 1931 to Rose and Lionel Vantour in Fort William, Ontario. She was the second oldest of six children.
Bernice worked several jobs over the years, including at McKeller Hospital in the laundry room as well as at Beacon Hill as a nurse’s aide. When she wasn’t working she was an active member of the International Association of Rebekah Assemblies and the Canadian Daughters, of which she was a proud and active member of their drill team. She enjoyed her many travels across Canada with the drill team participating in competitions.
Bernice, or Burbles as she was affectionately known to those who loved her, always had a smile on her face and it was contagious. Spending any time with her meant you left feeling happier. But she was never more at peace than when she was around family. Whether it was babysitting her grandchildren or great- grandchildren, spending time at camp with her daughter-in-law Mary, Christmas gatherings, family get-to-gethers or sitting on the back yard deck. If she was with her family she was happy.
Bernice is survived by her husband of 61 years Bruno, son Larry and daughter-in-law Mary, son Robert, grandson Lawrence and wife Trisha, granddaughter Crystal and husband Jean-Paul, great grandchildren Morgan, Brad, Caitlyn, Cassidy, Cydnie, and Lucas, and great-great-grandchildren Donivan and Aubrey. As well as sister Dolores and brother Gus and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents Rose and Lionel, sister Estelle Stefanato and brothers Ken and Lorne Vantour.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society, which Bernice battled and beat twice, or the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada which ultimately took her away from us.
A celebration of her life will take place on Friday September 11th at 11:00am at St. Peter’s Church, 615 Connoly Street, with Father Terry Sawchuk presiding. Interment will take place at a later date.
Bernice Deswiage will be remembered in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 12, 2016.
