Bernice Shirley Elizabeth Lauer passed away peacefully on December 30, 2023, at the age of 83. She was predeceased by Conrad Lauer, her husband of 60 years; her parents, August, and Betty (nee Hogilie) Lapointe, and brother Fredrick Lapointe.
Beginning her career at Peacock, Bernice worked as an administrative assistant for the Moose Jaw Public School Board, then later was promoted to the Board’s administrative office. Friends will also remember Bernice working at Kalium and CFB Moose Jaw.
In the early years Conrad and Bernice enjoyed meeting friends and family at the union center for an evening of socialization. Bernice loved to dance and was often viewed as the life of the party. Her gregarious nature with a positive outlook on life was tested through the years as she battled the progression of MS. The debilitating disease landed her at Extendicare where her quick wit, comedic sarcasm and positive disposition connected her to so many staff whose friendships she cherished.
She will be remembered fondly by her granddaughters who always enthusiastically looked forward to making the trip from Winnipeg to Moose Jaw. In their words “she was the most passionate roughrider fan they knew, always having the game on wherever she went. Her laugh and smile were so contagious and beautiful, it was easy to forget she had MS. She was so carefree and full of love. As long as she could turn the page to the books she read and have a smoke here and there, nothing got to her. Not many people have the chance to know their grandparents late into adulthood, we were just so lucky we got to know her at all.”
Bernice will be lovingly remembered by her son Conrad Lauer and two granddaughters, Paige Lauer, and Cassidy Lauer. Sisters-in-law; Janet Fry, Judi Zahara (Dale), Brothers-in-law; Harvey Lauer, Dan Lauer (Susan), Cliff Lauer (Diane) as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff at Extendicare for the special care provided to both Conrad and Bernice. Special thanks to the care providers who have been there since day one showing friendship, care, and compassion to Bernice for the past 17 years.
At Bernice’s request, there will be no funeral service. For those wishing, memorial donations can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. Arrangements are entrusted to W. J. Jones & Son Funeral Home.
In living memory of Bernice, a memorial planting will be made by W.J. Jones & Son Ltd. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries). Cerys Doan - Funeral Director Intern
