BLAIS, Bernard “Bernie”

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Bernie on April 6th, 2019 at the age of 83. He died peacefully in the loving arms of his devoted wife and surrounded by his beloved family. Son of the late Fernande Cullen (née Paquette) and the late Roger Blais. He had a great fondness for his stepfather, the late Dave Cullen. Bernie was the husband of Colette (née Bourassa) for 58 years. He was her best friend and the love of her life. Loved father of Paul (Barbara) of Grimsby, Rachelle (Gene) Bar, Carole Barbeau (Donald Perreault) of Sudbury and Alain (Melanie) of Espanola. Special grand-papa to Stephen, Christopher and Brittany Blais, Gillian Bar (Maxwell McAndrew), Mélanie Barbeau (Steven Mireault), Julie (Daniel) Townsend and Anna Barbeau. Great grandfather of Jackson, Emma and Caydan. Cherished brother of Roberta (John predeceased) Farrell and Clément (Judi) both of Toronto. Beloved brother in law of Louise McKinny. Survived by many nieces, nephews and life long friends. Bernie was a retired Sudbury businessman who owned The Big Dipper ice cream store and Mrs. Vanelli’s Italian Food. He was a proud member of the Club Richelieu de Sudbury. In his younger years he was an avid downhill skier and golfer. He also loved singing and dancing. He treasured the time spent at the family cottage in French River with his loved ones. Bernie enjoyed being the captain of his pontoon boat which he proudly christened the “The Big Dipper”. He and Colette spent over 25 years at their winter residence in St. Petersburg Florida where he played golf with the boys. All knew that the 19th hole was his favourite. Bernie had a great sense of humour and was a one liner master. Always the entertainer, he never missed an opportunity to make us laugh. The family wishes to thank Dr. Lynn Boissonnault and all of the dedicated medical professionals who attended to Bernie’s needs during his illness. Your compassion and kindness are so greatly appreciated. As per Bernie’s wishes, there will be no visitation. A celebration of his life will be held May 11th, 2019 at 10 am in St-Jean de Brébeuf Church. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 9 am. A reception will follow at Caruso Club Enrico’s Restaurant, 385 Haig St., Sudbury ON. Donations to the Maison McCulloch Hospice would be greatly appreciated. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Cooperative Funeral Home. www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca