MERRICK, Marie “Bernadine”

September 23, 1938 — February 11, 2024

With deep sorrow in our hearts, we announce the passing of our mother, wife, and dear friend, Bernadine Merrick, on February 11, 2024.  Mom was born in Fernie, BC in 1938. The family moved to Cranbrook early on, then lived in Kelowna since 2005.

Bernadine’s life was focused on her husband Doug; two kids, Deanna (Dave) and Allan; grandson Sheldon (Alyssa); and her new great-granddaughter, Norah. She was beloved by many nieces and nephews, including Noreen Merrick and her nieces from the USA: Tonya, Cindy, and Zoe. Bernadine was predeceased by her son Allan Merrick in 2021; and her husband Doug in 2022.  She was also predeceased by her parents, Cecilia and Lambert Walls; and brothers Walter (Margaret) and Ken (Joni).

She loved to fill her home with her family and surrounded herself with many wonderful friends from Cranbrook, Fernie, Vernon, and Kelowna. She loved to have her kids’ dogs on her lap, the latest being Guinness.

Bernadine met Doug in Fernie in the 1950s, and this August they would have celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. They often held hands and professed their love for each other. They would spend many hours sitting in the sunshine, just talking and enjoying each other’s company and chatting with neighbours. Mom and Dad never met a stranger. Christmas dinner often consisted of 18 or 20 people in their big home in Cranbrook. Family, friends, and neighbours were always part of holiday celebrations.

Bernadine worked for Miller and Brown in Cranbrook. She then worked for Pacific Brewer Distributors in Cranbrook for many years. All the beer reps loved working with her.

Mom and Dad spent decades travelling throughout the USA, from Hawaii to Washington, DC to Texas and many more. She and Dad, her brothers and their families often met in Las Vegas for a bit of gaming, a lot of golf, and even more shopping. Mom and Dad would take off at a moment’s notice for a new adventure. They also spent a lot of time in Kelowna visiting their kids, before moving here in 2005.

Bernadine’s Graveside Service, with Father Pat Monette officiating, will be held on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at KELOWNA MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY: 1991 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna, BC. Guests are welcome.

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