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BERNICE AILEEN MCCONNELL Obituary pic

BERNICE AILEEN MCCONNELL

Born: Feb 28, 1923

Date of Passing: Jan 02, 2015

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BERNICE AILEEN MCCONNELL (nee STEPHENSON) February 28, 1923 - January 2, 2015 On January 2, 2015 Bernice (Pinky) passed away peacefully at the St. Boniface Hospital with her family by her side. Mum will be lovingly remembered and so deeply missed by her children: Judy, Joan (Trevor), Nancy (Alan) Dann, Glenn (Danilla) and grandchildren, Rhiannon, Keltie, Bridget, Geordie, Danica, Matthew and Caelum. She was predeceased by the love of her life husband Jack; her parents Harry and Emma Stephenson; her siblings Florence, Harry, Johnnie, Emma, Ida, Olga, and Gordon; McConnell in-laws, and her loving dog Duffy. Bernice is survived by her brother Freddy (Doreen), and sister in-law Betty, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Our Mum loved growing up in the west end with her large family and many friends. She graduated from Daniel McIntyre and worked briefly at Eaton's, until her marriage to Jack McConnell in 1946 - possibly a marriage made in heaven, but orchestrated on earth by her brother Gordon, who introduced another railroader into her family. Marriage brought four children, who our mother loved unconditionally. She supported us in all our endeavours, volunteered at our schools, and baked terrific cookies. She shone as the best nana! Loved her grandchildren, who have many happy memories of her warm heart and immense generosity. Her home was their home away from home, with fond memories of sleep overs, snakes and ladders, rainbow time, sing alongs, and lots of chips! Mum also loved visiting with family fur babies In addition to her family life, Pinky loved to visit with her sisters and friends, watching football, bowling, and playing cards. In her retirement years with our father, she learned to love travelling, and took her first flight at 63. Managing our father's illness became a full time occupation for Pinky, and we are eternally grateful that care kept him with us for far longer than we thought possible. After our dad's death in 1999, our mum had her own health challenges; the main, and most devastating was a stroke in 2004. It changed her world. And her name. She insisted that she was no longer Pinky, and reverted back to Bernice. Our sister Judy took great care of our mother until Mum's death, honouring her wish to remain in her own home. She died after a short illness, in St. Boniface Hospital. We thank them for the excellent and compassionate care that they extended to her and us. Also our thanks to Dr. Nene Rush, our mother's family doctor. A Come and Go celebration of our mum's life will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2015 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Scandinavian Cultural Centre, 764 Erin Street. Flowers gratefully declined. Please make a donation to a charity of your choice, and hold your loved ones near.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 07, 2015

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

  • To express sympathy in the loss of your loved one and to let you know that many thoughts are with you and your family. In the love that surrounds you, may you find strength. In the memories you cherish, may you find peace. With caring thoughts Miro Cerqueti and pharmacy staff - Posted by: Miro Cerqueti () on: Jan 12, 2015

  • I always remember Bernice waiting for the Waverley Bus to take her to Polo Park and each time I would spot her I would stop and offer her a ride over. That was when she was still living in her home. She was a very kind lady and loved her home and family, her daughters and son. Her family was everything to her. My Aunt Kathleen (Kay Poole) grew up with your Mom and went to school with her. I remember my sister always telling me the fun times that she had at the McConnell's house! Now they are all having tea together! Thinking of you all at this sad time. Remember, your mom is just a thought away and forever in your hearts! Love and Hugs! - Posted by: Heather Poole (Friend of Nancy Dann (daughter)) on: Jan 07, 2015

  • So sorry to hear about your nana Rhi. My condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: Susan & Amelia (Friend) on: Jan 07, 2015

  • I remember Jack coming to our house often in childhood years - usually to fix our TV! He & Dad were great friends. Then I remember Saturday nights when Jack & Pinky would come over for an evening - Pinky was always fun, warm, interested in us & spent happy times chatting to my Mom about being married to railroaders (hoggers as they called themselves). I remember hearing lots of stories of their family on Carpathia. A wonderful couple - I know you will miss your Mom. Condolences to all. - Posted by: Joan Flood, Toronto (Daughter of Pat & Kay Flood - friends of Jack & Pinky) on: Jan 07, 2015

  • Bernice always made us feel welcome in her presence. She was always so warm and friendly towards our family. It's obvious that she (and Jack) created a loving, caring and close family. It is her legacy and that will live on in all of you. Wishing you comfort during this difficult time. - Posted by: Christine (Friend ) on: Jan 07, 2015

  • It was always a fun time at your house. Bently loved racing around your backyard. It was exciting when Jack and George where there too. Will miss your smiling and always friendly face. All who came to your house and the furry ones too looked forward to seeing you. Will miss you, Rest in Peace. Hugs and Kisses to all the family at this time. You are in my prayers. - Posted by: Mara Tolks (Friend of the Daughters) on: Jan 07, 2015

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