Bernice Ellen Turcotte (nee Rippon)
It is with heartfelt sadness that the family announces the passing of Bernice Turcotte at Health Sciences North in Sudbury on July 11, 2021 at the age of 85. Bernice was born in Toronto on October 23, 1935. Most of her childhood was spent in Parry Sound and South River. Bernice started her career in Sudbury where she worked as a switch board operator for Bell Canada until she left to follow her husband Lawrence (Lorne) while he worked as a bush pilot in various communities for the Ministry of Natural Resources. Eventually they settled in Gogama where they owned and operated a camping lodge and Gogama Air Services. After they retired from these endeavors, she and Lorne moved to Sudbury.
Bernice loved to travel and one of her favorite trips was in Hawaii. She and Lorne spent many winters in Florida and up until a couple of years ago, they would go camping every summer. Bernice was a very social person and would make friends wherever she and Lorne travelled. Bernice enjoyed reading books and writing in her diary EVERY day. She was a proud member of the Eastern Stars. Her greatest joy was always time spent with her family.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, Reginald and Margaret (nee Wattie) Rippon, as well as her two sisters, Elizabeth Omen and Patricia Pagan. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Lawrence, her two sons Bill (wife Louise) and Andy (wife Debbie), her grandchildren Stephanie (husband Dustin), Rebecca, Matthew and her great-grandchildren Danny and Cassius. Bernice will also be deeply missed by her many nieces and nephews, as well as all the members of the family tree on both sides.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Finlandia for the special care they provided to Bernice in her final months. They also want to thank the medical staff at HSN, fourth floor, South tower for their kindness and compassion.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Park Lawn Cemetery and Crematorium. No visitation or funeral services will be held as per Bernice’s wish. Donations to the Kidney Foundation in her memory would be greatly appreciated.