the age of 91 years old surrounded by family. Bernice was born on March 1, 1930 in Clearwater,
Manitoba, she was the oldest of 4, born to Alice and Earl Vandusen.
Bernice graduated in January 1952 from St Boniface school of nursing. She worked at Crystal City
Memorial Hospital from 1952-1955. She then moved and worked at St Joseph’s Hospital in Kenora ON,
from 1955-1959. Next, she headed to Fort Frances and worked at the Fort Frances General Hospital
from 1959-1980 and 6 of those years as head nurse in the OR. With another move to Nanaimo BC, she
worked at Nanaimo General from 1980-1985 ending her nursing career back at Fort Frances General
from 1985-1995.
Bernice loved her family and friends and devoted a lot of her time with them. She was a loving and
supportive mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and loved
preparing large delicious meals for family gatherings and holidays. Bernice loved spending her time
outdoors, boating, fishing, water skiing, cross country skiing, knitting and traveling. Bernice also devoted
a lot of her time to friends and family and as a caregiver to many of them. The nurse in her didn’t end
when she left the hospital.
Bernice will be deeply missed, she leaves behind her son Alan Boivin (Carol), from Fort Frances, her
grand-children Rene Long (Marty), Curtis Boivin, Michael Roy (Amanda), Tammie Roy (Drew) and great -
grandchildren; Claire, Evelyn, Eric, Haley, Ben, Sophie, Kyla and Miles, her brother John Vandusen (Fay),
nieces, nephews and friends.
She was predeceased by her brothers, Gerry Vandusen and Jim Vandusen.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at LaVerendrye Hospital for their help and support.
At Bernice’s request, a family celebration will take place at a later date.
In memory of Bernice, donations can be made to the Fort Frances Community Living, 340 Scott St., Fort
Frances, ON P9A 1G9.
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