Mack, Jeannine (Bernier)

Jeannine Mack (Bernier) (92) passed away peacefully on April 30th, 2021 under the compassionate care of the staff at the UConn Medical Center and Seasons Hospice.

In her last days and throughout her life, she was surrounded by her loving family, which was her life's greatest joy. She shared 63 years of marriage with her late husband and best friend Ed. They raised four children and later welcomed 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Together they built a home both physically and spiritually in Burlington, which became an oasis for family and friends. Jeannine made everyone feel at home in her presence offering good conversation, a game of cards or Rummikub, a simple snack and the invitation to “come sit” and “eat slow”.

Jeannine was always deeply interested in the life stories of others, especially those of immigrants like herself. Some of our best memories of her are in the quiet, personal moments of trading such stories, connecting over our common humanity and the lessons learned from a life deeply lived.

Helping and cherishing others, especially children, was the centerpiece of Jeannine's life. She and Ed were partners in humble service, always looking out to their extended network of family, friends and church community for an opportunity to offer help and support. Jeannine, the eldest of 9, was born in Saint-Evariste, Quebec, Canada and immigrated with her family to Hartford during the Great Depression. Her family faced many hardships in these early years, including the death of her mother when Jeannine was in her 20's. In remembering this difficult time of her life she would reflect on the power of three essential values to see you through hard times. These values, instilled in Jeannine by her mother are: love, family and faith. Jeannine worked at The Hartford Insurance Company for over 30 years, first as a young woman helping to support her father and younger siblings and again later, after having her own children.

Jeannine is survived by her brothers George and Norman Bernier. She was predeceased by her siblings: Rolande Millerick, Aline O'Connor, Annette Acanto, Marielle Violette, Clement and Raymond Bernier. She will be greatly missed by her four children Linda Smith, Aline Cronin, Janet Mack, James Mack and their families.

She was a woman of deep faith, strong convictions and was a champion for children.

There will be a Memorial Mass held at the Church of Saint Mary Star of the Sea in Unionville on Friday, May 28th at 10am. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Avon immediately following the Mass. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Jeannine's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital www.stjude.org/donate/. Arrangements are being handled by The Ahern Funeral Homes, Inc., www.ahernfuneralhome.com.

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