It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our lovely Bernie. After a year of challenges with ill health, she was hit with a sudden and baffling illness that took her life quickly in the end.
Bernie was born on the “Old Kilcullen Green” Co. Kildare, Ireland, the youngest of ten in a strong Catholic family. After her schooling with the Convent Nuns, she went to work in the Dublin Post Office as a telephone operator.
Then, Bernie met the love of her life, Jim and their marriage led them on to adventures living in Liverpool, Chester and Berkshire, England. With limited money, they forged a fun and beautiful life for themselves and their four children.
Mum was always energetic and jumped at the opportunity to move to Canada, arriving in Regina in 1964. After a few years there, the family moved to Victoria, B.C. where they truly made their home. An extremely hard worker, she worked in many retail capacities, volunteered at soup kitchens, raised funds for various causes and was a long-time volunteer at Broadmead Lodge. As a devout member of the Sacred Heart Parish, she worked with joy and energy at its many activities. She rarely said no when asked to give a helping hand.
Mum enjoyed playing bridge, attending the Victoria Symphony, watching tennis and baseball, entertaining and being with friends and relatives. She was the Bernie of “Jim and Bernie”, a known Victoria entity. Countless trips back to Ireland and England over the years offered them ways to reunite with relatives and friends as did their travel adventures to Hawaii, Mexico, or on a cruise. Most important to Mum was her family. Her love was ever-there and her support could always be counted upon. She was always eager for babysitting duties.
When Bernie was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease she accepted it with grace and never complained over the years of pain and hospital visits. She and Jim eventually made their way to Shannon Oaks where new friendships were formed and where she lived until she passed away.
She leaves behind her loving and saddened husband Jim, daughter Margaret Dale (Dennis), sons Peter (Kathy), John (Joanne) and Joe (Daphne). Grandchildren, Katelyn, Matthew (Colleen), Carlee (Luke), Daniel, Chelsea and Laura and great grand-daughter, Maisee. Also, numerous nieces and nephews around the globe.
Now in God’s arms, Bernie is free from pain and left us on a note of peace and tranquility.
Due to Covid restrictions, there will be a private family Funeral Mass and interment at Royal Oak Burial Park.
Rest in Peace Bernie. We love you and miss you with all our hearts.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
15 Responses
Our sincerest sympathy to you Jim and family with the passing away of your wife and mother, Bernie.
During the years in Sacred Heart, we had the privilege to know you both Jim.
Bernie was really a good sport and friend to know during the church bazaars for the poor.
We have fond memories of her.
Miep and Rudy
Remembering the good times our families spent together and wishing you all comfort and peace.
well done good and faithful servant. Sacred to the memory and condolences to family .
Dear Chelsea and Family,
Sending love and sincere condolences to you and your family.
Love and hugs, Vicki
After a lifelong connection with Aunt Bernie and Uncle Jim, I will miss our visits with you. It has been a long a difficult time for your family and glad that she passed peacefully. Will continue to see Uncle Jim when possible. Love and hugs to all the family. Wendy ❤️
So sad to hear of Aunt Bernies passing. She endured so much in the last few years.
Many beautiful memories of shared times with Aunt Bernie and Uncle Jim and the cousins. We always had lots of Irish fun and laughter.
My deep condolences to Uncle Jim and family. RIP dear Aunt Bernie.
Treasured memories of dear aunt Bernie.
Great to have seen both of them last year.
Thinking of you , uncle Jim and your family
at this sad time.
From Robert , Adrienne & family.x
A beautiful tribute to your beautiful mother!
Our sincerest sympathy to you, all your family, but especially your father at this sad time.
Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you.
Mary-Jo and John
To Jim and family sorry to hear about the passing of Auntie Bernadette Rip, Thinking of you all, Will get a mass said for Auntie Bernie and family here in Suncroft Ireland,love to all from Bernie and Ray Toft and family, i Bernie am the daughter of the late Maí O Neill nee Sammon
Mai o Neill nee sammon rip, daughter Bernie sorry I left out daughter in my last email