BERNICE COHEN

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BERNICE COHEN It is with great sadness that the family announces that Bernice passed away after a lengthy battle with lung cancer, on January 30, 2003 at the Riverview Health Centre. Bernice is survived by her devoted and loving husband Larry and her two sons, Stuart (Dana) of San Diego, CA and Jeffrey of Duncan, BC; her pride and joy, three grandsons, Daniel, Jonathan, Alex. Also left to mourn are her three brothers, Victor Grusko (Gloria) of Montreal, Barry Grusko (Robyn) of New York and David Grusko (Wendy) of Winnipeg; as well as many nieces and nephews. Bernice was predeceased by her parents, Doris and Hymie Grusko; her brother Aaron Grusko; and her youngest dear son Kerry. Bernice was born December 15, 1938, subsequently graduated from high school in Quebec City. She moved to Winnipeg with her family in 1953. Bernice worked very diligently everywhere she was employed. After her three sons were old enough, Bernice went back to work in her favourite field of "looking after people" who were less fortunate. She worked for the Jewish Immigrant Aid Society where she assisted immigrants to settle in Winnipeg and find suitable employment, then at Womens Employment Counselling Service, where she assisted ladies with their education, resumes, and ultimately finding them suitable employment. Her last position was with the provincial government in the Department of Education and Training where she provided counselling services to men and women in employment transition. At a joyous and memorable retirement party from the provincial government in January 2001, she received accolades from scores of co-workers who had come to know her constant drive for perfection. Bernice was known to be a consummate homemaker by all who knew her. She was well known for her excellence in cooking, baking, and her volumes of "tried and true recipes" which she shared with all who requested. She took great pains in preparing the perfect home, the perfect celebration for all "simchas" and festive occasions and gatherings of friends. Bernice always took enormous pride in the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and her many friends. There was no task too daunting for her to tackle and ultimately complete. She particularly enjoyed many happy times with her family and friends at her summer home at Winnipeg Beach, so beautifully appointed, where she loved to entertain. Bernices legacy was to help all people in a less fortunate position to fulfil their potential. The dignity and courage Bernice displayed during the last year of her illness was indeed emblematic of the way she lived her life. Special thanks to Mona Wilfer of CancerCare Manitoba, to Mary Ashcroft, Dr. Marcelo Garcia, and Dr. Janice Mulder of the Riverview Health Centre for the wonderful attention and care they offered Bernice in her time of need. Thank you to Rabbi Neil Rose, Dr. Marvin Slutchuk and Norman Goltsman for their part in the funeral service. Very special thanks to all of Bernices friends who shared the last days of Bernices very special life. There are not enough words to express the familys thanks to Evita Smordin for her constant companionship, care and love. Thank you to our wonderful friends the pallbearers, Lyle Smordin, Earl Goldin, Sid Ritter, Bruce Rayburn, Mark Fayerman and Tom Kaniuga.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 05, 2003