September 30, 1929 - June 8, 2024
In loving memory ~
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Bernice, our family's matriarch. In the morning of June 8th, Mom Crossed the Bar.
Mom was born in a little old house at the end of Machleary Street, starting the third generation of "Nanaimoites". At the age of two, the family moved to Hecate Street to be closer to the family business, Nash Hardware.
In her younger days, the family spent many weekends at the cabin at Lake Cowichan where Mom developed her love of the water, fishing and the outdoors.
Mom spent her teenage years working for her dad at the hardware store, and continued on after graduating from John Shaw High School in 1947. During her tenure at 'the store', Mom was Cashier, Clerk, Buyer, and latterly, Bookkeeper.
Between spending time with her good friends and working, Mom became quite the seamstress, sewing into the late hours of the night (or wee hours of the morning) to ensure she was always smartly dressed for work.
Mom met our dad Stanley at the Pygmy Dance Hall and after a short courtship, they were married on September 26, 1951. They had a wonderful life together, cruising on the 'Hornblower' up and down the BC Coast with many memorable gatherings at their 'Valdes Island Paradise' with family and good friends. They also enjoyed cruising on the 'Big Ships', making lifelong friendships along the way.
Their boating lives revolved around the Nanaimo Yacht Club, with Dad being a member for 64 years and Mom for 71 years. They were also very active members in the Tollycraft Boating Club. At their annual Rendezvous, Mom always had the boat decorated for the theme of the year. She and dear friend, Gladys Gorosh, would win 1st and 2nd prize every year!
Mom was a dedicated member of Nanaimo Chapter No.43, Order of the Eastern Star, receiving her 75-year pin in 2023, almost reaching 77 years as a member! She served as Worthy Matron from 1965-66, and again from 2009-10; as Worthy Grand Matron of BC and Yukon from 1991-92; and as Treasurer for many years. Her commitment to the Order of the Eastern Star was lifelong, joining at just 18 years old. She enjoyed organizing semi-annual Teas & Bazaars, decorating the halls, making floral arrangements and corsages for installations, and making the best "high tea sandwiches".
In her spare time, she was Guardian of Bethel No. 11 of Nanaimo Job's Daughters, from 1970-73, as well as Worthy High Priestess of the White Shrine, from 1959-60. And an avid supporter of the Nanaimo Concert Band, which Dad played in for 73 years.
Mom's hobbies and talents were extensive and included card-making, crafting, floral arranging, sewing, gardening, and cribbage, to name a few. She was an extraordinary hostess, always making sure everyone had an abundance of delicious food and tasty beverages, whether at her home, on-board the Hornblower or at an event.
Mom was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother (lovingly known as GG), and mother-in-law. Her support and dedication to her family was always first and foremost.
Mom was fortunate to have good health throughout the majority of her life. In her later years, when health challenges presented themselves, Mom's motto was "Onward and upward!" The eternal optimist.
Mom will be fondly remembered for her generosity, positive attitude, quick wit, dedication to family and friends and, of course, her warm smile. She was quiet but confident, a mentor to many and a loyal and trusted friend to all who knew her.
Predeceased by her beloved husband Stanley, parents Wilf and Betty Nash, grandson Michael and brother Bob Nash.
Survived by her three children Larry (Barb & families), Donald, Barbara (Dwight & families), grand-daughter Lindsay (Jamie), great-grandson Carter, sister Freddi Saults and several cousins, nieces, nephews and her many special friends.
We would like to thank Mom's caregivers for their love, devotion and exemplary care, as well as the staff of the Palliative Unit, NRGH.
"Our Family Chain is broken and nothing seems the same but as God calls us one by one, the Chain will link again."
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Nanaimo Yacht Club, Saturday, September 21st, 2024 @ 1:00 p.m.
Service Details
1:00 PM