Obituary of Bernie Irving

IRVING: Mary Bernadette "Bernie" Irving (née Parago) passed away on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 surrounded by family. Bernie was born on July 25, 1945 in Sydney, Nova Scotia to Bernard and Bridget Parago. Bernie grew up in a house full of boys but always helped her "Ma" caring for the house full of babies they fostered. After graduating from high school, she moved to Halifax to work in the shipyards for the Department of Defence. In 1968, Bernie gave birth to her son, Laurie. She moved to Victoria, British Columbia in 1972 to work for Canada Post. While living in Victoria, she gave birth to her daughter, Shelly. In 1976, Bernie moved her family to Thompson, Manitoba, where she worked in the hotel and hospitality industry. Bernie moved to Brandon to be closer to her daughter who was attending university in 1995. Over the next several years, Bernie stayed in the hospitality industry working at Humpty's, Trails West Motor Inn, Safeway and Sobey's. While working at Trails West, Bernie met Russell Pugh, whom she spent the rest of her life with. Russ and Bernie enjoyed her last years socializing and travelling with many good friends in their Co-op building. Bernie is predeceased by her parents Bernard and Bridget Parago (née Ryan). Bernie is survived by her partner Russell Pugh; her son Laurie Irving; daughter Shelly Taylor (Rob) and granddaughters: Amanda, Jessica, Vanessa, and Kaylee. Bernie is also survived by her brothers: Joseph (Patsy); Dennis (Margie); Patrick (Marie); James (Sharon); as well as an adopted sister, Gloria. A special thank-you to the amazing staff at the Souris Health Centre for the compassionate care they gave to both Bernie and her family during this difficult time. A Memorial Tea to celebrate Bernie's life was held at Central United Church Auditorium, Brandon, on Monday, May 28, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. Donations in memory of Bernie may be made to the Souris Health Centre, Box 10, Souris, MB, R0K 2C0.