Obituary of Bernice Agatha Flaman

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Bernice was born on January 24, 1936 and passed peacefully on October 15, 2022. Her 86 years were well lived and she continues to be much loved.

Known for her infectious laugh, the sparkle in Bernice’s eye lit up every room.

Bernice was the first child of Margaret and Ralph Pletz and big sister to Butch. Growing up she was surrounded by her cousins and best friends in the community of Lipton. Bernice’s extended family prepared her for the big family of ten that she and Frank Flaman would eventually raise on the farm near Southey. Her natural beauty was matched by her strong values and sense of humour. Bernice’s somewhat shy demeanor as a child gave way to the outgoing, feisty spirit that we all know well. Kindness and generosity defined her.

Bernice’s door was always open, in fact, she never locked it. She had room for friends and family who often came and stayed. Wonderful memories were made around the dinner table, over a beer in the backyard, or when sharing in a glass of wine while playing cards.

Bernice was an astute co-owner of a thriving family business. Her math skills were useful then and during the many card games played throughout her life (and right up until last week, in fact). Mom never met a casino she did not like. An avid fan of curling and the Saskatchewan Rough Riders, she cheered with her knitting needles or crochet hook in hand. That is, when she was not travelling, fishing, doing puzzles, or socializing with friends. Bernice cherished the moments - dinners and celebrations with family, looking after her grandchildren, crocheting blankets or knitting sweaters, watching the sun set over the lake, and enjoying ice cream at Milky Way, a family tradition.

There was never a dull moment with Bernice. Her sharp wit and sense of humour were part of her charm. She had impeccable judgement, always knowing exactly when some salty language and the not-so-occasional superlative were required. You knew where you stood with Bernice. Generous with her insightful advice, she was never afraid to speak her mind.

Bernice was brave. Fearless. Whether it was driving a bus on family trips to Mexico, moving with her children to Regina, or supporting her friends on life’s journey, Bernice’s determination and strength never waivered. Strong in her faith, the Catholic Church was her spiritual home.

Bernice’s life was filled with some surprises, and we don’t just mean her rather sudden promotion to social director at head office ‘upstairs’.  At the age of 68, Bernice’s long-standing friendship with Don Jelinski evolved into love and they married.

Bernice devoted her life to her family. She lives on in her ten children: Kate, Rudy, Fran, Cindy, Don, Carmel, Steve, Crystal, Carla, and Gwen; their spouses; her 14 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Bernice was ‘Mom’ and a dear friend to many. She was and continues to be the centre of our solar system, the glue that binds.

Bernice will be sorely missed by her family and many friends, particularly those at Broadway Terrace, who have become like family.

Bernice’s life will be celebrated at Holy Cross Catholic Parish, 315 Douglas Avenue East, Regina, SK, on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. A small reception will follow. Private family inurnment in St. James R.C. Cemetery, Southey, SK.

Bernice had a servant’s heart and always looked for ways to do something for everyone else. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.