Robert Bernhardt

It is with a profound sense of sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Father and Grandfather, Robert Bernhardt. Dad passed away on November 8, 2012.

He was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife Vivian in 1993, and is survived by the joys of his life, his children and grandchildren – daughter Kathryn, sons David (Cheryl) and Richard (Seta) and his four wonderful grandchildren, Leah and Rachel and Christopher and Eryn. He is also survived by his sister Irene Mitchell. In Dad’s words, he “had a good life and was blessed with a loving family”.

Dad had a long and varied working life, most notably as the owner of a small country hotel in Killarney Manitoba. Upon moving back to Winnipeg in the early 70’s, Dad worked for Eaton’s in Polo Park for a number of years during which he formed many lasting friendships that endured to the end of his life.

Dad was especially proud of his service in the RCAF in World War II. He voluntarily enlisted and served for three years, spending most of his time in Middleton St. George, England. He remained a member of the Air Force Retirement Association until his passing. His time in the Air Force instilled in him a love of flying and, while living in Killarney, he took up flying and was a student pilot for much of his adult life.

Following retirement he became involved in the Eaton’s Retirement Club and enjoyed immensely their many activities. He looked forward to the monthly coffee parties, weekly bowling in winter and lawn bowling in summer as well as a host of other activities.

With the passing of his wife, Dad formed a special friendship with Phyllis Weir and looked forward to, and back upon the many happy experiences they shared. He especially enjoyed their weekly Friday get together with Norm and Pat Davidson.

We’d like to extend our gratitude to the kind and caring staff of the Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care Unit where Dad spent the last few days of his life as well as the WRHA Palliative Care Unit for all their help and comfort these past few months (Kris our case coordinator, Shannon and all the other nurses that looked in on Dad and the ladies who helped him with breakfast and lunch). Thanks also to Dr. Daenick of CancerCare for his care and interest in Dad’s life.

Flowers are gratefully declined and donations to the Riverview Health Centre Foundation, Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), Manitoba division or CancerCare Manitoba would be appreciated.

A memorial reception will be held at Thomson “In the Park” Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Blvd., on Friday, November 16, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. with reminiscences being shared at 2:30 p.m.