With profound sorrow the family of Florence Bernst announces her passing on the morning of March 9th 2023 with family by her side.
Florence was born in Port Arthur to Tony and Julia Franick on June 25th 1928. She attended St. Andrew’s elementary school before graduating from Port Arthur Technical and Commercial High School (later Hillcrest).
Florence first worked in an insurance office before moving to Jessiman Motors. She then took a sabbatical to have her children before gaining employment with the Lakehead District School Board as a secretary. She ultimately retired as the head secretary at FWCI after a long and fulfilling career.
In 1953 Florence married Earl Bernst and began her most important and most successful career raising her three sons. Family meant everything to Florence and she was happiest orchestrating huge holiday dinners at their home on Begin Street, usually with her sister Margaret and the DesRosiers family.
In 1968 those family dinners moved to a new venue when Florence and Earl bought their camp at Shebandowan. From that time well into her nineties Florence spent every summer at camp even celebrating her 90th birthday at Shebandowan with a huge family gathering, of course.
Florence was predeceased by her parents, Tony and Julia Francik. She is survived by her sister Margaret DesRosiers, her three sons: Douglas, Rick (Lynda), Glenn , her grandchildren Meagan Kennedy, Ali Derlago, Taylor Bernst, Alexander Bernst, Julia Bernst and great grandchild Shep Derlago.
The Bernst family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr.Cappello, Dr. Garon and the staff of Hogarth Riverview Manor 6 North for their care and compassion in treatment of our mother. Our greatest thanks go to “niece” Christine Adduono who was a companion, a caregiver and a good friend to our mother and will always hold a special place in our hearts for that.
According to Florence’s wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
