Bernice Ruth Cozens

Beloved wife of the late James William Cozens (1995). Loving mother of Charles (Janet), Danny (Donna), Tim and Laura (Mike). Cherished grandmother of Jennifer Eichler, Chaz Cozens, Angus Cozens, John Teau, Patrick Keating (Vanessa), Steven Keating and Benjamin Keating. Predeceased by Sam Cozens and Alex Keating; great-grandmother of David Cozens, Charlotte Keating and Natalie Keating. Dear sister of Florence McGill (Ron, deceased) Margie Tome (Mario, deceased), Phyllis and Lorna Melko (sister-in-law). Predeceased by Rose Martinson (John), Joe Melko (Olive), John Melko (Margaret), Mary Browne (Bill), Philip Melko (Vicky), Nellie Bachuk (Mike) and Steve Melko.

Bernice was one of 11 children and had wonderful memories of growing up on a homestead farm in Whitemouth, Manitoba. When she was a young teen, the family moved to the Hamilton area where she struck out on her own at the tender age of 14, working at various jobs including cashier at The Palace Theatre. Later, she married James Cozens, and had three boys and a girl, all who became professional musicians. She also worked for many years as a library secretary for the Hamilton Board of Education. Bernice was a real people-person. She loved to sing, dance and take care of her many plants. She was also a great story-teller and that's how we learned so much about her life. She always loved a good joke and her infectious laugh could always get others laughing too. Bernice radiated positivity and her strong faith in God carried her through many challenges. She was always kind and the best mother a son or daughter could ever have. She will be missed everyday by her children, extended family and those she came to know and love her during her lifetime.

Resting at Cresmount Funeral Home – Fennell Chapel, 322 Fennell Avenue East, Hamilton for visitation on Monday, August 14, 2023 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 19 Viewpoint Avenue, Hamilton on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Stoney Creek. Bernice supported several charities. If so desired, memorial donations to any of the following would be appreciated by the family: Cancer Assistance Program, Chalice, Good Shepherd. Online condolences can be made at www.cresmountfennellchapel.com.