WINNIFRED MARGARET BERGNER

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WINNIFRED MARGARET BERGNER After a very long and full life, Winnie Bergner passed away January 8, 2016 at the grand old age of 101. Winnie was predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Kurt, her son Ed, and dear sister Edie Baker. Left to celebrate her life are her children Harvey (Irene), Warren, Gloria (Mark Fenny), and Glenda (Colin MacDonald); grandchildren Karen (Dave), Heather, Cheryl (Ward), Keith (Angela), Tammy (Grant), Tracy, Carolyn, Kathryn (Don), Scott, Cameron, and Christian; great-grandchildren Michael, Marian, Eveline, Kate (Jesse), John, Anna, Leo, Jenna, Michelle, Melissa, Ashley, and sister-in-law Una Bergner. Winnie was born in Winnipeg July 4, 1914 but lived in Yorkton, Glasgow, Vancouver and then New York City where she and her sister worked in the new Chrysler Building at the famous Schrafts Restaurant before returning to Winnipeg to marry Kurt in 1933. Winnie and Kurt settled in the North End where they raised the three boys and formed many wonderful lasting friendships, becoming famous for hosting parties where they rolled up the rug, tapped a keg and danced till dawn. Winnie and Kurt moved to Fort Garry where they continued to accumulate many new friends through the activities of Bomberettes and highland dance that the girls were involved in. Winnie was a staunch advocate and fan of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It didn't matter if it was hockey, horseback riding, piping, drumming, highland dancing, gymnastics, running marathons, figure skating, competitive swimming, biathlon, music, baseball or anything else they turned their hand to. The candy cupboard where children were invited to visit, and collecting their "pension" are fond memories for many. Winnie was not only the matriarch of the family, she was a role model. Suffering the many trials and tribulations of life, she always managed to push through any difficulty, stronger than ever. She was an active person in her own right, swimming at the Pan Am pool for over 30 years, dancing, and was a hostess and cook beyond compare. She also became a fan of professional sports, in particular Doug Flutie and the Blackhawks #19. As her health and mobility began to wane, she was lovingly cared for with compassion and dignity by the staff at River Park Gardens who added much to her quality of life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Khartum Shrine Transportation Fund, 1155 Wilkes Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3T 1B9. Respecting Winnie's wishes, there will be no service. Friends and family are invited to gather to "Live, Love, Laugh" at the MacDonald home, 31 Sloane Crescent, on Sunday, January 17, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., to remember this fine lady!

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 16, 2016