Bernadette Alice Duncan

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bernadette (Bernie) Alice Duncan (née Dauvin), surrounded by love on January 13, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer, at the age of 67. She leaves behind family and friends whose lives were enriched by her love and who will miss her dearly.

Bernie was born in Redvers, Saskatchewan, and raised on her family farm near Bellegarde, Saskatchewan. There, she learned the importance of hard work, commitment, and family – values that shaped her beautiful character and guided her throughout a life rich in purpose and care for others. Following the tragic loss of her Mother at a young age, her family moved to the northern mining community of Thompson, Manitoba. It was within this remote, resilient community that Bernie built a full and meaningful life grounded in love, devotion and connection.

In Thompson, Bernie met the love of her life, Craig, began her career with the City of Thompson, raised her two beloved children, formed lifelong friendships, and became a dependable, compassionate presence to all who knew her. She was actively involved in the community, giving her time and energy to various organizations over the years and always supporting her children’s activities and sports. A familiar and supportive presence at the arena and on the curling ice, she especially cherished the friendships and strong sense of community that came with it.

After 32 years of dedicated service Bernie retired, and in 2010, she and Craig relocated to Parksville, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island – a place of endless natural beauty and peace that brought her deep joy and comfort. Retirement suited her well. She loved being outdoors, taking long walks with her dog, and spending time by the waterfront, exploring the quiet beauty of the Island. She took great pride in her flowerbeds and kept an immaculate yard, finding joy in tending to her home and surroundings. She continued to enjoy curling, valuing the wonderful friendships that came with it. Both of her children eventually made the Island their home as well. Bernie was blessed with two grandchildren, and together they remained close, sharing countless moments and creating lasting memories as a family.

She was the heart of our family – calm, gentle, thoughtful and quietly strong. She gave selflessly of herself, always putting the needs of others first and ensuring those around her felt supported and cared for. Her compassion, steadiness, and loving presence shaped our lives in ways that will endure. The lessons she taught us and the values she lived by will continue to guide us.

Bernie was predeceased by her father and mother, Lucien and Cecile Dauvin.

She is lovingly remembered by Craig, her husband of 45 years; her daughter Leslie (Jason); her son Shawn (Laura); her two adored grandchildren, Emily and Angus; her beloved dog, Skye; and her 3 brothers Marcel (Linda), Gilles and Jean-Marie. She will also be deeply missed by the many family members and friends whose lives were enriched by her warmth and generosity of spirit.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and quiet strength that will not be forgotten.

Our family extends our heartfelt gratitude to her medical team – particularly Dr. David Sims, Dr. Sean Addison, Dr. Madeleine Smit, the incredible team in the Wellness Centre at North Island Hospital, as well as Dr. Susan Hunter and the Oceanside Hospice Society – for their exceptional care, compassion and support throughout her journey. A special thank you to Paramedics John and Katherine of station 130, whose kindness allowed Bernie a final visit to the ocean so she could once again take in the beauty of the Island she held so dear, with Craig by her side. Your care, dedication and humanity will never be forgotten and meant more to us that words can ever express.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Yates Memorial Services in Parksville, BC on Saturday, February 21, 2026, where she will be honoured in the quiet ways she would have appreciated most – through love, togetherness, kindness and reflection.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her honour to the BC Cancer Foundation or the Oceanside Hospice Society.

Care entrusted to Yates Memorial Services 250-248-5859