BERNARD (BEN) PERNITSKY

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BERNARD (BEN) PERNITSKY In the early morning of Friday, June 25, 2004, in the comforting arms of his family members, our gentle Ben passed away after a brief and hard fought battle with cancer, at the age of 68 years. Left to cherish his precious memory are his loving wife of 43 years (and one day), Marguerite, son Mark (Robin), daughter Andrea (Clo), and grandson, Dustin. Dad will also be mourned by his very special nephew Vincent Koziey (Kathy) and siblings, Agatha, Jean (Ira), Leo, Eugene (Joyce), Loretta, Eleanor and Lorraine (Robert) as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. Dad was predeceased by his parents, Martin and Regina Pernitsky; his mother and father-in-law, Stella and Nicolas Katana; and brother-in-law Tony Gordon. Dad was born on January 18, 1936, in Wilkie, SK. Starting at an early age, Dad learned the value and reward of hard work. Together with his father and brothers, he assisted in building the family homestead. It is still used as a second home on the sprawling acreage today. Although Dads childhood was affected by two serious illnesses that nearly took his life, he continued to fulfil his responsibilities to his family and home by assisting in day to day chores. He milked cows, tended to the chickens and a large garden. Dads initial love of gardening turned into a lifelong passion and was an excellent outlet for his enthusiasm and interest in horticulture. Dads industrious nature and strong work ethic was not limited to farming. During his adolescence he designed and created ceramic squirrels and other little critters, which he sold at the local bowling alley. In 1954, Dad left the family homestead, which he adored, to explore the world of academia. At The University of Manitoba he pursued his dreams in academics, entering the Faculty of Architecture at the age of 18. His first summer away from home found him working with his hands on the pipeline. The aching muscles and hours of loneliness were deemed worth it when dad bought his first car the following summer. Dad continued his studies always remembering his goals. After completing his studies Dad went to work for Imperial Oil for eight years and then back to The University of Manitoba for the next 25 years. He served as Project Manager in both of these places where he oversaw the maintenance and construction of countless buildings on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. At the age of 23, Dad met the love of his life, a beautiful, doe eyed brunette named Marguerite. Dad and Mom married two years later and were inseparable for the next 43 years (and one day). Their union created two beautiful children, Andrea and Mark. Many other children found comfort and love in the hearts and the home of these caring parents who opened their door to all of their kids friends. With open arms, Dad and Mom welcomed the addition of two more adult children, those being the spouses of Mark and Andrea. Dad showed his love and support for his two new kids and showered them with love, guidance and strength. He planted trees, painted houses, and patched walls for the kids. Helping them turn their houses into homes. He was always only a phone call away and he never begrudged a moment of his time. His loving support was felt in a myriad of ways. He will be missed. Words alone can never express the sincere appreciation Dad and our family have for the emergency staff of St. Boniface Hospital and the beautiful angels that care for the ill on 5B medicine. We extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Olweny, Bonnie, Arthur, Judy, Jackie, Corinna, Nida, Cheryl, Tim, Leslie, Cindy, Sharon, Alice, Karen, Shelly, Pierre and to the all of the staff on this incredible floor who guided our family through this difficult journey. We thank you not only for your medical expertise, but also for your comforting words, hugs and tears that you shared with all of us. We thank you for taking care of us, the family, in the same caring and compassionate way you looked after Dad. You angels will forever be in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you, and God bless each and every one of you. A celebration of Dads life will take place Wednesday, June 30 at 1:00 p.m. at Mary Magdalene Church, located at 3 St. Vital Rd., Winnipeg, with Canon Rev. Bob Webster officiating. Pallbearers are Mark Pernitsky, Andrea Pernitsky, Dustin Pernitsky , Eugene Pernitsky, Vince Koziey and Clorinda Trujillo. Internment will take place at St. Vital Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or The Childrens Wish Foundation. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 28, 2004