Audrey Berdina White

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of an amazing mother, grandmother, sister and auntie. Audrey is survived by her son Ron Jr. (Shelagh), sisters Francis and Bernice and brother Theodore. Left to cherish her memory are her beloved grandchildren Mahri and Malcolm, special nephew Walter Dorrington, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and countless friends old and new.

Along with her loving husband of 62 years, Ron Sr., Audrey is predeceased by her brothers Roger and Don, sisters Joyce and Shirley and her parents Garnet and Mabel Thomas.

Audrey was born in Amherst, Nova Scotia as the oldest of 8 children. She quickly became her mother’s right hand taking care of her sisters and brothers while her mother and father tried to make ends meet during the depression. Times were tough but these challenges would build strength in Audrey as she developed a strong work ethic that blended well with her natural sense of humour and positive attitude. She did well in school and excelled at sports - especially basketball, leading her team, The Amherst Dodgers, to the Intermediate Championships in 1946. When she was still a teenager she started working in a cafe where she began to hone her skills as a proficient cook.

Audrey and her future husband Ron knew each other all through their childhoods and took part in many picnics, baseball games and family functions together. When Ronnie went away to serve in WWII, she patiently waited for his safe return.

After they got married in 1948, Audrey and Ronnie moved out west to Winnipeg to find work and start a family. Initially Ron worked at CN with his brothers Leroy and Mike and Audrey worked in the bustling garment industry. Audrey often told the story of how after their first winter in Winnipeg she suggested to Ronnie that they go back to Nova Scotia. But they had started to put down roots and Ronnie soon had a good job with Canada Post.

For many years Aunt Audrey and Uncle Ronnie opened their home to family, friends and all waifs and strays. Their hospitality and generosity was legendary. Audrey loved creating a warm and inviting refuge filled with love, and the smell of fresh baking.

In 1964 Audrey and Ron welcomed Ron Jr. (Kippy) into their family. The role of motherhood came naturally to Audrey and she and Ronnie showered their new addition with unending affection and attention. Audrey also showed the same comfort and loving care to many nieces, nephews and grandchildren in her care over the years.

Another area where Audrey’s skills and prowess were unmatched was in the kitchen. Anyone who had the pleasure of sitting down for dinner at Audrey’s left with a full belly, a smile and probably a doggie-bag. Roasts, chicken, spare ribs, countless sweets, pies, and goodies of all kinds were always in abundance. She enjoyed cooking and loved it when she could share the bounty and feed a crowd.

When Ron Jr. was old enough, Audrey went back to work. She excelled at helping others and enjoyed many years of dedicated service working for Homecare.

In retirement Audrey cherished her time with family and friends and was fortunate enough to vacation in Hawaii with close family friends Stella and Charlie. Audrey and Ronnie also enjoyed late night card games with her brother Theodore and Gertie and George Hill.

Audrey was talented at knitting, crocheting, quilting and sewing, creating countless beautiful keepsakes for loved ones, and eventually sharing her knowledge and skills with her granddaughter. Throughout their lives, Audrey enriched the lives of her two grandchildren, spoiling them with many treats and passing on her knack for mischief.

After she lost the love of her life in 2010, Audrey made the difficult decision to scale down and move into assisted living. She loved her new home at Sterling House, and was able to enjoy the care-free lifestyle that she so well deserved while making great friends with the staff and residents.

Audrey was a wonderful, caring woman with a mischievous smile and quiet grace. Her unending generosity and inclusive nature touched many, many people and leaves a legacy that will live on.

The family would like to thank the amazing staff at Sterling House. Their genuine care and attention made Audrey’s time there a joy. They would also like to thank the wonderful nurses and doctors at the Victoria Hospital and the St. Boniface Hospital. Their dedication in these trying times is so much appreciated by the family.

Unfortunately, due to the current situation in the province and the world, a traditional funeral service is not possible. To celebrate her life we would like to encourage everyone that knew Audrey to please leave a message of condolence or share a fond memory at www.greenacresfuneralhome.com

We love you, see you again soon.