MARY ANTONIA BERCH

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MARY ANTONIA BERCH (BODNARUS) June 13, 1937 - September 16, 2016 With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mary Antonia Berch (Bodnarus) on September 16, 2016, at Riverview Health Centre, after a short battle with cancer. Mary was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Pauline Bodnarus (Shyk); her husband, Walter Berch; brothers, Adam Bodnarus, and Walter Bodnarus; brother-in-law, Joe Berch; sisters-in-law, Violet Bodnarus, and Frances Berch. She is survived by her brother, Melvin (Ruth) Bodnarus; sisters, Rose Bodnarus, Gladys Bodnarus, and Eugenia (Dave) Unrau; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Bodnarus; many nephews and nieces from both sides of the family; cousins and dear friends. Mary was born June 13, 1937 in Komarno, MB. After she graduated grade 12 in Teulon, Mary spent her first year as Permit Teacher at Light School in the Interlake. The following year she completed the Manitoba Provincial Normal School to attain her teaching certification and continued a teaching career that spanned 35 years. She taught in her hometown school of Komarno for five years, and after two years teaching in Beausejour, she moved into the St. James-Assiniboia School Division to teach at Butterworth Brooklands, Strathmillan, and Heritage Schools. In 1975, Mary and Walter Berch were married, and in 1984, she was widowed. In 1987, Mary became a member of the Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority, where she served the Beta Chapter in various positions, and attended many international conventions as a delegate. Upon retirement in 1992, Mary immersed herself in community volunteer work. She directed and coordinated many programs and projects as a Founding Member of the St. James Assiniboia 55+ Senior Centre. Mary enjoyed world travel, flower arranging, and photography. Her beautiful art of calligraphy, as well as her talent for pickling, preserving, cooking and baking, were cherished by family and friends. Our familywould like to thank the staff at Riverview Health Centre for their care and support. In accordance with Mary's wishes, a private family memorial service was held. Flowers are gratefully declined; memorial donations may be made in her memory to a charity of choice. Vichnaya Pamyat

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 24, 2016