BERNIER, Claire

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of a dear wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. Claire passed away on December 4, 2012 at home surrounded by her loving family following a courageous battle with cancer. Claire is survived by her cherished husband of 58 years, Jacques Bernier; six children, Lucie (Barry) Lycka, Suzanne (Joe) MacDonald, Helene (Jean) Szaszkiewicz, Robert (Kelly), Lise (Paul) Gour and Diane (David) Slauenwhite. She will also be remembered lovingly by her 19 grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren; brothers, Patrick (Jaclyn) Paquet, Raymond ( Gilberte) Paquet; brothers-in-law, Luc (Huguette) Bernier, Jean (Ernelle) Bernier, Marc (Aline) Bernier; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and many dear friends. Claire was predeceased by her parents and two brothers. Claire will be fondly remembered for her limitless devotion to her family and to her francophone community, particularly her involvement with “L’Association des Scouts et Guides Francophones de l’Alberta, service clubs “Club Richelieu” and “Club Jean Patoine” and her parish, St. Joachim. A Prayer Service will be held on Friday, December 7, 2012 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home, 10011 – 114 Street, Edmonton. Reverend Felix Kusamba will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joachim Catholic Church, 9928 – 110 Street, Edmonton followed by a private family interment at St. Joachim Cemetery. Special thanks for the support of the many healthcare workers, notably Dr. Michael Sawyer, Dr. Sarah Robbins, Dr. S. Simon and Dr. D. Farrah; nurse Agnes and the exceptional palliative care team that enabled her family to care for Claire at home. Memorial donations in Claire’s name may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation in support of the Cross Cancer Institute. “A `Jamais Dans Nos Coeurs” To send condolences please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com