Obituary of Bernice Amanda Martin

MARTIN, Bernice Amanda (nee Handy/Borgstrom) April 26, 1919 to November 20, 2011 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Bernice from the Collins/Lousana district who passed away at the St. Mary’s Health Care Centre, Trochu, Alberta. Bernice was predeceased by her husband John Henry (1964), son Melvin (2005), daughter Patricia (2010), an infant son at birth (1958) and her dog Maggie. She is survived by Kay (Bill) Svederus of Penhold, Ken (Bernadette) Martin of Andrew, Maureen (Bob) Erickson of Victoria, Denise (Wendy) Martin of Delburne, son-in-law Larry Leddy (Patricia) of Edmonton, daughters in law Sadie Martin of Calgary and ‘Little’ Pat (Melvin) Traub of Kamloops, 13 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, sister in law Mary Borgstrom of Provost, other family and friends. Bernice was born at Hayter, Alberta to parents Augusta and John Borgstrom. At a young age, she was adopted into the home of Fred and Lillian Handy. Bernice and Henry lived in the Provost area until Henry returned from WWII, and they relocated to the Collins/Lousana district where they farmed. After Henry’s passing, Bernice continued to manage the farm and raise her young family. Later, she was employed as a seamstress in Red Deer. Bernice had an innate love for God’s creations; she had a passion for birding, gardening, and enjoyed working and caring for her animals. She was an exceptional cook and host to many friends. She enjoyed crafts such as painting, quilting and knitting. She was involved in her community and was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary Legion #142. The family wishes to thank the caring, dedicated staff at St. Mary’s Health Care Centre - you became her extended family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Mary’s Health Care Centre, SPCA, Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice. Thank you in advance. A funeral service for the late Bernice Martin will be held at the Delburne Community Hall, Delburne, Alberta on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 1:00 PM. with Rev. Nicholas Wasylowich officiating. Following the funeral service Bernice will be laid to rest beside her husband Henry at the Delburne Cemetery with a fellowship and luncheon to follow at the Delburne Community Hall.