With her loving family beside her, Bernadette peacefully slipped from this world into the solace of Heaven. Bernadette was born in Kenora, Ontario on March 18th, 1933. She was preceded by her loving husband, Malcolm Stuart Fisher; Parents William (Ed) and Irene Hanton; Siblings Harold (Huck) Hanton, Mary (Sissy) Knapton, Melvin (Joe) Hanton, as well as her loving toy poodle “Candy”.
In her youth, Bernadette enjoyed working with the priests at the Rectory and the nuns at St. Joseph’s Hospital. When she recounted her memory of this time, it was always with a wisp of a smile for days long ago. September 9th, 1950 Bernadette married Malcolm at Notre Dame Church, Kenora, ON and enjoyed 54 years of togetherness. She will be sadly missed by her eight (8) children: Malcolm II, Sharon, Robert, Cindy’Ann (Victor) Butts, Shelley (Jeff Larsen), Kim, John (Rose), William (Rosemarie); Grandchildren: Tanya (Jeff) Egan, Samantha Butts, Colin (Ashley) Butts, Laura’Ann (Matthew) Robertson, Kaitlyn (Thanos) Labrakis, Malcolm Fisher III, Luke and Alexandra Fisher, and Great-grandchildren: Matthew and Jordis Egan, Charlie’Ann Robertson and Elizabeth Butts. In addition, numerous nieces, nephews and long-time family friends Sharlene and Brad (Cathy) Forsberg.
Mom’s career as a stay at home Mom was more challenging and fulfilling to her than any 9-5 job could have ever been. She was the glue that kept and will continue to keep our family united. Every day spent with her family was a blessing she cherished. We take comfort in knowing our love surrounds Mom on her journey home to our Heavenly Father and Blessed Mother Mary. Knowing she is reunited with Dad, Candy, her parents and siblings, brings us much comfort and joy as we know she missed them dearly since they passed.
Mom’s favorite time of year was Christmas as it embodies the spirit of giving. She channeled that love of Christmas into giving back to her community through some of her favorite charities…the annual Christmas gift drive for unwed mothers (babies) and families at St. Paul’s Church, Richmond; the Franciscan Nuns who aided the homeless and disenfranchised people in Vancouver’s East Side; and the Operation Smile program.
Mom’s faith in God was immeasurable. Her wisdom, strength and values were anchored in the teachings of her parents, the Church and the priests & nuns who taught her in school. The way in which she lived her life demonstrated to her children the importance of having empathy, a caring nature, honesty and integrity. Her heart was as big as her smile, her warmth embraced all who were in need of solace or friendship. We couldn’t be more thankful to Mom for all she did and all she was.
Mom, you will remain now and forever in our hearts as our blessing from God.
Special thanks to Dr. Leslie Brown for her unending care and support of Mom and our family. In addition, our deep appreciation to Fraser Health Home Care for their professional services which made it possible for Mom to stay in her own home until the end.
Prayers will be said Wednesday, November 1st, 2017 at 6:30 pm at St. Paul’s Church, 8251 St. Albans Rd, Richmond, BC where a Roman Catholic Mass will be celebrated Thursday, November 2nd at 10:30 am, Msgr. Dennis Luterbach, celebrant.
We are returning Mom home to Kenora to rest peacefully by Dad’s side. Roman Catholic Mass will be held Saturday, November 4th, 2017 at 11:00 am at Notre Dame Church, Father Rudy Manaloto, celebrant. After interment, luncheon to follow at Notre Dame Parish Hall.
Hon. Pallbearers: Malcolm Fisher II; Robert Fisher; John Fisher; William Fisher, Colin Butts, Malcolm Fisher III, Luke Fisher, Matthew Egan, Victor Butts, Jeff Larsen, Keith Fisher II, Glenn Fisher and Brad Forsberg.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Smile. In remembrance of Bernadette, please perform an Act of Kindness unto others; Mom believed every kindness brings us closer to God and Peace on Earth.
A SILENT TEAR
Just close your eyes and you will see
All the memories that you have of me
Just sit and relax and you will find
I’m really still there inside your mind
Don’t cry for me now I’m gone
For I am in the land of song
There is no pain, there is no fear
So dry away that silent tear
Don’t think of me in the dark and cold
For here I am, no longer old
I’m in that place that’s filled with love
Known to you all, as “up above”
– Author Unknown