BERNICE CORMIER (SMITH)

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BERNICE CORMIER (nee SMITH) June 5, 1924 - March 29, 2005 Peacefully, on Tuesday, March 29, 2005, in the St. Boniface General Hospital Palliative Care Unit, Bernice died at the age of 80 years. Remaining to cherish her memory are her children, Sue Magne (Henri), Jim Cormier (Sumitra) and John Cormier (Robynne); grandchildren, Nicole and Cecily Magne and Jupi and Valo Cormier; as well as extended family members and many dear friends. Bernice was predeceased by her husband Camille Cormier (1984); her siblings, Marion DeVisser, John Smith, Norman Smith and James Smith. Bernice was born in Birds Hill in the family home built by her grandfather. Over the years she shared many happy memories of her childhood on the farm. Mom's early adult life was spent as an air force wife who raised her family in Nova Scotia and British Columbia. Her home was always open to our friends and neighbours, and she was never too busy to sit and have a cup of coffee with anyone who needed a sympathetic ear or a helping hand. Bernice was a wonderful cook and always had baked treats on hand for one and all. She returned to the family home in 1966 after retirement from air force life. Bernice spent many happy hours sitting at her kitchen window, watching the birds, squirrels, rabbits and deer that would come to visit her feeders. She also had a great love for the many dogs and cats she counted as family over the years. As a mature adult, Bernice went back to school to become a library technician. She was employed by Red River College and the Health Sciences Centre School of Nursing. Her final career was as a municipal councillor for East St. Paul. Bernice cared passionately about issues that affected the community she had so loved from childhood till her death. During her lifetime Bernice taught her children and grandchildren many valuable lessons. Some of what we learned from her follows: - To love the escape of reading - To value education and lifelong learning - To appreciate the beauty in nature - To love and care for animals - To show compassion to those in need - To be independent thinkers - To appreciate others for their differences - To be socially conscious - To understand what a thoughtful card or gift can mean to someone - To set a nice table and cook a good meal - To love our children unconditionally - To be honest and honourable in our relationships In compliance with Bernice's wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. Our family extends heartfelt appreciation to all of the staff at the St. Boniface Hospital who worked so hard to provide care and comfort. As an expression of sympathy, for those who wish, donations in Bernice's memory may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 5 Kent St., Winnipeg, MB R2L 1X3. Do not stand on my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die. I am the thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glint on snow. When you awaken in the morning hush, I am the swift uplifting rush. Of quiet birds in circled flight, I am bright stars that shine at night. I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. Do not stand on my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep. WOJCIK'S ALL BELIEFS FAITHS FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM 897 - 4665

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 02, 2005