BERNICE VALGARDSON

1927 - 2008

Dorothy Bernice Valgardson, beloved wife of the late Leo Valgardson, of Taber, passed away on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at the age of 80 years.
Bernice is survived by her three loving children, Lorie (David) George of Medicine Hat, Lyn Tschritter of Medicine Hat and Bryan (Cassandra) Valgardson of Taber. She also leaves to cherish her memory, twelve grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and a brother Maurice (Sherry) Williams of Vancouver, British Columbia.
She was predeceased by her husband Leo Valgardson, her parents John & Lizzy Williams, a brother Donald Williams, two sisters Helen Williams and Peggy (Norm) Metz and by a granddaughter, Lisa Tschritter.
Bernice was born in the family home in Shouldice, Alberta on May 15, 1927. She attended school in Barnwell and completed her schooling in Taber, graduating with honours. During her school years, Bernice became an accomplished runner in track & field and was an excellent math student. While attending high school, Bernice worked in the family business, Taber Frozen Foods, as well as Vickerys and the Town of Taber.
Following high school, she received nursing training in Lethbridge, but contracted tuberculosis during her third year and lived in a sanitarium for two years. Following her release from the sanitarium, Bernice began working as a bookkeeper for Superior Motors Ford Dealership which led to a forty seven year career; most of which was spent with Ford dealerships for several different owners in Taber. She was well known for being meticulous with the books, ensuring that every penny was accounted for, providing outstanding service to her co-workers, customers and owners. She was a loyal, hard working employee throughout her career, retiring in 1997.
On November 19, 1954, Bernice married Leo Valgardson. Leo and Bernice had three children - Lorie, Lyn and Bryan; throughout her life, her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her focus. She enjoyed the simple things in life including parades and family picnics. She loved to host her growing family for special events throughout each year. She developed her talents in knitting and crocheting.
Following her retirement, Bernice maintained an active life for many years, bowling in the local ladies league, playing cards with friends and travelling with her sister and brother-in-law Peggy and Norm Metz and later enjoyed several cruises with her friend and travel companion, Leone Johannson.
Bernice is lovingly remembered by her family and friends as a woman of integrity.  She was kind and thoughtful and handled life’s adversities with dignity.  She was always willing to help others, particularly her children.  Bernice was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served several years as a Sunday School Teacher.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family in the Relief Society Room of the Church prior to the service from 11:30 A.M. to 12:40 P.M. on Thursday, January 24, 2008.
The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taber Stake Centre, 4709 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, January 24, 2008 at 1:00 P.M. with Bishop Mark Baldry conducting. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Bernice’s name may be made directly to the Taber Hospital Foundation (Continuing Care), 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta  T1G 1N9.