March 30, 1928 - December 4, 2020
Bernice McColl was born March 30, 1928 in Lashburn, SK and passed away in Chemainus, BC on December 4, 2020 at the age of 92 years.
Bernie was a loving mother to her girls: Debbie (Jim) Walker and Earla-Kim (Bob Hagymasy) McColl; doting Grandmother to: Jamie (Michael) Kerr, and Thomas (Erin) Walker; and precious GGMA to: James Kerr and William Walker.
She was a very special aunt to numerous nieces and nephews, and is survived by many cousins. Bernie was predeceased by her loving husband Earl McColl (1986) and by her dear sisters: Helen Nahnybida (2012) and Norma Cooke (2020).
Mom was a teacher, business woman, and volunteer. She started her teaching career in rural Saskatchewan, but moved to Chemainus as a young bride to set down roots and raise a family. She and Dad ran Chemainus Heating Oils for many years, and the two of them were very active in the community and had a strong sense of civic responsibility.
Mom was a lifelong member and supporter of the United Church. She volunteered for decades with the Harbour View Housing Society and the Chemainus Health Care Auxiliary. She was one of the driving forces in many of the contributions that the Hospital Auxiliary made to the community.
Of particular pride to her was her work on the Steering Committee for the Steeples Project. She spent many hours at "the shop" as she affectionately referred to the Thrift Store, working with many long-time and new friends.
Mom enjoyed many activities, including bridge, golfing, and travelling the world extensively. She enjoyed knitting and crossword puzzles, following the news, and her condo with a water view. Mom will be remembered for her love of life, kindness and welcoming nature by everyone who knew her especially by one of her longest and dearest friends, Shirley Cobb.
The family would like to thank the caring and amazing staff at the Chemainus Health Care Centre, the Vancouver Island Health Authority, La Rosa Gardens, as well as Dr. Manhas, her kind companions, and all of Mom's friends for being such important and supportive parts of her life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chemainus Health Care Foundation, the Chemainus United Church, the Cowichan District Hospital Building Fund, or the charity of your choice. Tribute details will be decided at a later date. Condolences may be offered online at www.sandsdunca.ca