The family of Bernice Annette Bird, late of Birch Hills, SK would like to announce her peaceful passing on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023, at the age of 106 years. Our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Bernice was born on September 8^th, 1917, to Perry and Olga (nee Dahlby) Musselman in Glenside, SK.  Bernice and Frank married on December 24th, 1936, and had one son, Russell. Frank passed away in 1989. Bernice was part of a big, loving family, most of whom are now gone, so that will be one fun party where everyone is reunited! I wonder who will start crying first?

How do you sum up 106 years of memories and accomplishments in a few short paragraphs? Her hard work, caring nature, her humor, and her love of life are some of the many traits that characterize this amazing and loving person. She was beloved by everyone who ever met her. No matter the circumstance, you’d always leave with a story or something fun you did while you were with Bernice. Nothing gave her more joy than a good joke or a funny prank. Never one to let a joke pass by, she knit a dog sweater for the Guest’s pup, this was long before clothing for pets was popular.

In the days when hobbies were more about making items that were needed, Bernice sewed, knitted, and quilted. Family members who received one of these special & precious quilts have a special gift to treasure.

Bernice’s hands never lost their strength or grip. We children can attest to having our head wrung out after washing was an experience none of us will forget.

Bernice was an amazing cook and had the gift of stretching food to feed whoever was around at mealtimes. “Just added a potato to the soup pot” she’d say. Her pies were well known and always in demand at bake sales or suppers.

Bernice will be lovingly remembered by her son Russell (Sharon); her granddaughter Pamela (John); her great-grandson Brook (Adrianna); her adopted son Graham Guest (Suzanne); their children Sean, Jimmy, Sky, Jennifer, Jonathan; all the children who grew up being loved on, cared for, and having their own “Grandma Birdie”, the Macfie boys were especially close; her sisters June Nickel & family, and Ila Konik & family; as well as many nieces and nephews that all were so loved.

A special thank you to Sandra Elsaesser for many hours of visiting, “tea” parties, organizing clothes, and grieving together Sandra’s mom and Bernice’s sister, Irene. Sharing their loss was a huge comfort to Bernice.

The family would like to send big thanks to the caring staff of Birchview Care Home. Such a small gesture for all the hours of comfort and kindness shown to Bernice, it was a blessing for her to spend her final years in such a wonderful home.

A Private family service will be held. Condolences can be sent to the family on our website at www.mackenziechapel.ca.  Arrangements in care of MacKenzie Chapel & Crematorium.  Brian & Bev Stobbs, Mark Gyoerick, Jordyn Jacobson – Mel Curle. 306.763.8488.

• Date : 2023-09-20
• Location : Birch Hills, SK