

Bernie passed away at Perley Health, where he had been a resident for the past three years. His family is deeply grateful to the caregivers and staff of Perley’s long-term care facility for their compassionate and devoted care during his final years.
Born in Ottawa on January 25, 1927, to John Cyrus and Alma (née Delorme), Bernie grew up in a bustling household as one of ten siblings. The closeness of his large family shaped his values of community, faith, and service. Throughout their lives, the family never missed an occasion to get together to share fun times and great memories. Over the years, Bernie made it a priority to bring everyone together for large family reunions. He is survived by his siblings: Leonard and George (Margaret). Bernie is predeceased by his siblings: Norma, Earl, Violet, Hubert, Leona, Lawrence and Bernice.
Following a brief period of military service during WWII as a private in the Canadian Infantry Corps, Bernie found his calling in the electrical trade, dedicating his career to the Federal government. His craftsmanship, work ethic and professionalism earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.
Bernie married his first wife, Alice (née Landry) in 1957, raising four children together: Paul, Marc (Kellie), Marie and Rene (Teresa). Alice was French Acadian from New-Brunswick and Bernie became very close to her family. He spent many summers visiting extended family in the Maritimes. Following 26 loving years of marriage, Alice passed away from cancer in 1983. Bernie remained widowed for over a decade before marrying Yvette (née Berthiaume) in 1998. As a stepfather, Bernie was embraced by his stepchildren: Larry (Betty), Patsy (Bernie), Diane (Terry) and Annette (Peter) and took part in many family gatherings and celebrations. Bernie and Yvette enjoyed 20 years of companionship and joyful moments until her passing in 2018.
To his grandchildren: Jonathan, Cara, Kathryn, Isabel, Emily, Christine, Michael, Tabitha, Jennifer, Lisa, Erika, Tyler, Matthew, Stephen and Andrew, and many great-grandchildren, Bernie was known for his generous heart and playful spirit. He delighted in their company and cherished the opportunity to pass down his wisdom, laughter, and traditions.
A man of deep Catholic faith, Bernie’s devotion to God and the Blessed Virgin Mary inspired a lifelong commitment to helping those in need. In retirement, he showed no signs of slowing down, organizing events within the church and community, contributing extensively through volunteer work and spreading joy wherever he went. His love of sports, music, card games, and tending to his humble garden brought him great contentment and often served as a means of connecting with others.
Bernie leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service. He will be remembered by his many nieces, nephews and friends (including family in the Maritimes) for his kindness, sense of humour, and unwavering devotion to family and community.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the dedicated staff on R2N at Perley Health for their exceptional care. We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Bernie’s caregiver Yvonne who cared for him like her own father.
Friends and family may pay respects during the visitation on Thursday October 23 2025 from 6-9 pm at the McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home & Chapel (1411 Hunt Club Road Ottawa, Ontario, 613-737-7900).
A Catholic funeral Mass will be held at St. George’s Parish (415 Piccadilly Ave, Ottawa, ON) on Friday, October 24 2025 at 2:30pm. Reception to follow in the church hall below.
Interment at Notre-Dame Cemetery (455 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON) will take place on Saturday Oct 25 2025 at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bernie’s memory may be made to the Perley Health Foundation or the Congregation of Missionaries of the Precious Blood, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others.
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