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BERNIE FAILING
After a long and courageous battle with dementia, Bernie William Failing passed away on August 2, 2025, at the age of 89, at Golden West Centennial Lodge in Winnipeg.
He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Marge (Mills), and daughters, Jan and Lee (Dan Ohlson). He was the beloved O'Dad of grandchildren, Will (Sarah) and Matt Boudreau, Rae (Max) and Elan Failing, and caring brother-in-law of Judy Mills (Winnipeg), Karen Kordyback (Edmonton), and Brenda Watson (Toronto).
Bernie flew with the Royal Canadian Air Force before graduating from the University of Alberta with a degree in electrical engineering. His love of flying then drew him to what became a long and happy career as a pilot for Air Canada.
The family is grateful for the kindness and care of the staff at Golden West, especially Kris and the second-floor team, whose dedication to those living with dementia provided us with comfort and peace of mind, knowing that Bernie was in such capable and compassionate hands.
As per Bernie's wishes that his death mirror his "low-key" life, there will be no service. We will remember him for living a life of quiet but unwavering honesty and integrity, leading by example, always treating others with fairness, humility and respect. He also played a mean banjo.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 09, 2025
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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Dear Marge, My warmest condolences to you and your family on the passing of dear Bernie. My memory is full of wonderful times spent with you & Bernie and the many friends and neighbours on Whitegates Crescent. It was a very special time. Heartfelt sympathy, Connie Drybrough - Posted by: Connie Drybrough (Friend) on: Aug 11, 2025
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Growing up with our group of Putnam cousins was a joyful and fun experience, we were then joined by our wonderful partners, Marge being Bernie’s lifelong love, and oh what fun we all had as a group that remained close forever. Bernie will be remembered as a loving friend, husband. He was so proud of his two daughters and grandchildren. RIP Bernie. Sending love to Marge and family from cousins babe and Ellie. - Posted by: Ellie, Babe and Sam (Cousins) on: Aug 10, 2025
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So very sorry to hear about Bernie! My sincere condolences to the family! I was very fortunate to know and fly with Bernie on both the DC9 and A320 when I was based in Winnipeg! A great pilot mentor and friend! I am sad to hear he isn’t among us! (Save me a seat Bernie!) - Posted by: Clair Maynard (Friend) on: Aug 10, 2025
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I was saddened to hear of Bernie's passing, after having the pleasure of sharing the flight deck with this quiet man on many occasions. Bernie always had a ready smile, and did the job with little fan fare and minimal drama, which was a wonderful way to conduct the business of professional aviation. My heartfelt Condolences go out to all his family. Sincerely, Kim Sharpe. - Posted by: Kim Sharpe (Work Colleague) on: Aug 09, 2025
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Rest in peace Bernie- fly high! - Posted by: Jack Gillespie (Toastmaster friend) on: Aug 09, 2025
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