Andrew "Bernie" Swaile

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of our family patriarch, Andrew Bernard Swaile, at the age of 96. Bernie was a hard-working, kind-hearted and adventurous individual who lived a full and vibrant life.

Bernie was the beloved father of Robert (Kathy) and Martha, and a devoted grandfather to Amy (Dre), Philip (Natalie), Krista, and Bryan (Jenni). He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Taylor (Gavin), Amelia and James.

Bernie will be lovingly remembered by Joyce, his partner in curling , travel and watching countless Blue Jays games. He will also be greatly missed by his close friend and motorcycle-riding companion Ted, and by his loyal furry friend Pixie.

He will be missed by Kathy's children and grandchildren; Erin (Nick), Drew (CiGi), Lauren (Jasim), Lennon, Jacob and Noah.

Bernie's wife, the late Helen Keogh, was the great love of his life.

They would have marked their 75th wedding anniversary on February 6th. Bernie passed away the day before, as though he had gone ahead to join her in celebrating that special day together.

Their life was filled with adventure, on boats, at cottages, on snowmobiles, in RVs and riding motorcycles.

Bernie was always busy, whether renovating, building, modifying, changing, customizing, repairing, or fabricating something for himself or others. When things didn’t go quite as planned, his favourite saying was “jeeslum cripes.” His more recent sayings included "oh Man" and "Oh S@*!#" and "Don't let the kitty out"

A private family service will be held. As per Bernie's wishes, his ashes will be transported to the cemetery on the back of his motorcycle to his final resting place at St. James Parish in Colgan, where he will be reunited with Helen next to the church where they were married.