It is with heavy hearts that the family of Bernard “Bernie” Theodore Zurakowski announce his unexpected passing on June 7, 2026, at the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital.

Born and raised in the Kalyna district, Northeast of Prince Albert, Bernie grew up in a hardworking family farm as the middle of three boys in a close-knit Polish Catholic family. His early years instilled in him a strong work ethic, deep resilience, and a lifelong connection to the land.

Following his graduation from Prince Albert Composite School, Bernie began his working life in constructing bridges across the province. After joining Peters Motors in Prince Albert, he married Peggy, and together they embarked on a journey of building their careers and starting a family. Over the years, Big Bernie worked extensively in the forestry industry as a truck driver and loader operator, eventually returning to his true passion… farming.

He enjoyed his years of playing ball with the young guns of Garden River and was deeply committed to his community. He served several years as a Councillor and later as Reeve in his rural municipality of Garden River. He was also a proud and active member of St. Mark’s Knights of Columbus.

In 2000, Bernie experienced a significant farming accident that changed the course of his life. Through determination, strength, and the unwavering support of Peggy by his side, he worked tirelessly to regain his independence and quality of life, achieving far more than many thought possible.

Bernie will be remembered for his sharp, dry wit, his remarkable ability with numbers, and his deep, hands-on knowledge of anything he worked on, especially in his shop, where he seemed to know the location of every bolt by heart. He had a natural gift for tackling any problem, confidently using the tools available to him with skill and ingenuity to get the job done. He took immense pride in his family, his farming roots, and the life he and Peggy built together.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife Peggy of 59 years. He will be deeply missed by his children, Michelle, Ted (Jamie), and Jeff (Jocelyn); his treasured grandchildren, Samantha, Nathan, Landan, Benjamin, Lauren, Rachel, Alexander and Jillian; and his great grandchildren, Lacey and Brooks who were all a great source of pride and joy in his life. He is also remembered by his brother, Donald (Eileen) and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He will be deeply missed, loved, and remembered by all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Steve and Anne, his older brother Jerry, and sister-in-law Shirley.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff and community of the Herb Bassett Day Centre, whose kindness, patience, and genuine care created a place where Bernie felt welcomed, formed friendships, and shared some laughs, often over a game of cards. He appreciated the routine, the conversations, and the camaraderie, and in his own quiet way, brought a bit of his sharp wit to those around him.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mark Parish (581 9th Street East, Prince Albert) on June 17 at 1:00 p.m. A lunch will follow at the parish, with interment at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium, Lorne Adams, Funeral Director, Prince Albert SK  306-763-3322.

• Date : 2026-06-07
• Location : Prince Albert, SK