Obituary of Bernice Gabry

Bernice Elizabeth Gabry of Camrose passed away Sunday, February 9, 2014 at the age of 85 y ears. Bernice was born July 17th, 1928 to parents William and Bernice Macdonald, and grew up on the family farm north of Camrose with younger siblings, Donald and Joyce. She attended first Throndson School, Dinant school for grade 9 and Camrose High School for grades 10-12. Bernice married, and over the next 13 years welcomed one daughter (Linda) and three sons (Jim, Bob, and Anthony) into the world. The family moved to Camrose in 1960 and Bernice started working at St. Mary's Hospital as a Ward Clerk and then in Medical records. She moved over to Rosehaven's Medical Record Department and retired at the age of 59, having worked outside of the home in excess of 25 years. Bernice volunteered at the St. Mary's gift shop, or actively participated in organizations such as Al-anon, A.U.P.E, and the Condo Board at Park Place and was active in planning Dinant reunions. It was at the Single's Club that she met Alex Gabry and after a courtship of 10 years they married and spent almost another 30 years together. Both of them enjoyed travelling and especially camping in their 5th wheel with close friends and family. Often accompanied by Joyce and Dennis they spend many a summer in northern Saskatchewan fishing and blueberry picking. Another memorable trip was to Nova Scotia where her Dad's family still resides on his parent's homestead. Bernice also loved to listen to the Accordion and several trips were made to Kimberley, B.C. to the World Accordion Festival. Her greatest love was her family. She delighted in their successes and offered encouragement wherever possible. She never quit on anyone who needed her support, strength, drive, or love. Bernice had numerous grandchildren and loved to spoil them. Many trips were made to buy candy and to play in the school yard to the delight of all. Birthdays and special events like graduations were remembered and celebrated. Thanksgiving was the major holiday celebrated by our family and was always hosted by Bernice and Alex. She would prepare everyone's favorite foods and enjoyed being surrounded by loved ones. The annual Christmas trip to Edmonton to gather with family was special to her as well. Bernice enjoyed playing cards or board games and especially competitive Scrabble with her granddaughter April and best friend Elsie Richardson. Other hobbies included curling, cross stitch, quilting, square dancing, playing the piano, reading and accompanying Alex to Fly-in Breakfasts and Legion events. Bernice was a beautiful person who tried to be a source of inspiration, strength, comfort and joy to those around her. Her love for life and dedication/service to others provides an example of how life should be lived. She will be remembered fondly by her husband Alex; children Linda (Chuck) Deschenaux of Edmonton, Jim (Ann) Starcheski of St. Albert, and Anthony Starcheski of Edmonton; eleven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; sister Joyce (Dennis) Dibski of Saskatoon; and special friends of the family Nancy Starcheski and Karen Davis. Bernice was predeceased by her son Bob; grandson Brett; and brother Donald MacDonald. Cherished and loved Bernice will always be remembered in our hearts. A Funeral Service was held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 15, 2014 from the Burgar Memorial Chapel with Rev. Brian Hunter officiating. Inurnment has taken place in the Camrose Cemetery. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted the Brett Starcheski Memorial Fund, or to the Canadian Cancer Society.