It is with heartfelt sorrow we announce the passing of Bernhardine on June 24, 2019 at the Kelowna General Hospital in Kelowna, BC. She is survived by, and will always be eternally remembered by, her devoted husband of 52 years, Sam Wong; her loving son, Fred Lucas, and her caring daughter, Helena Schilling; her 3 grandchildren Nicole, Natalie, and Ottavio; and her 6 great grandchildren.
Bernhardine was born in Paderborn, Germany; 1 of 5 siblings and a survivor of WWII. She immigrated to Canada in 1953 with her first husband and lived in various places until she and her second husband, Sam, whom she met in Vancouver, move from Calgary, to escape the colder climate to the milder weather of Kelowna.
Bernhardine, always stylish throughout her life, was strong minded and independent but was also kind, loving and generous to family, friends, and even people she didn't know that well. She and Sam also fostered a number of children overseas. She worked very hard in a variety of jobs for several years of her life, when both she and Sam retired they loved to go cruising which allowed them to explore new and exciting places, try wonderful cuisine, and meet great people who, more often than not, became long term friends. She was creative, which showed at a young age, in her knitted and crocheted creations and her wonderfully crafted Christmas decorations. She enjoyed a good laugh, good times with family and friends, great conversation, and was an avid reader, in particular of historical novels. Bernhardine, although frail and in declining health, was very fortunate to be able to spend her final years in her home of over 20 years and her last moments in Sam's loving arms.
We would like to thank the Kelowna General Hospital and staff for the care shown and given to Mom in the final moments of her life.
Mom, may you rest in peace with your loved ones above. You will be in our hearts always and forever.
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 3 at 1 pm at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC, with refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation , www.heartandstroke.ca, or Breast Cancer Research,www.bcsc.ca Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com
