Bernice Muriel Prather (nee Nipshank) died peacefully in St. Albert, Alberta on November 19, 2017 at the age of 69.
Bernice is survived by her partner Melvin Gauthier; children Lenora (Stuart), Kevin (Eileen), and Melissa; step-children Branda, Marilyn, Val, Barry and Melvin; siblings Barbara, Marvin, Carol (Ken), Brian, Rhonda, and Derek (Sarah); sister in law Jean; brothers in law Lawrence and Howard; grandchildren Tarryn, Niyana, Gwen, Emily, and Rixford; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bernice was pre-deceased by her parents Jeremy and Wanda; brother Elmer; sisters Margaret and Irene; grandson Elijah; nephews Josef and Brody, and niece Angelique.
Bernice was born November 8, 1948 in Calling Lake, Alberta to Jeremy and Wanda Nipshank. After raising a family, Bernice returned to college as a mature student and earned a degree in education in 1997. Upon graduation she returned to Wetaskiwin, and worked at Nipisihkopahk Education Authority as a primary school teacher. After a number of years, Bernice returned to Calling Lake where she taught for Northland School Division, retiring in 2013. She is remembered by her children as a loving and compassionate mother, who encouraged them to pursue their goals.
Bernice was an active member in the community of Calling Lake, enjoying Seniors Outreach events and family gatherings. She was a generous individual who loved spending time with family and friends, and was passionate about teaching Cree language and culture to her students. Bernice often spent time volunteering at the Athabasca food bank.
Bernice’s family would like to thank the Sturgeon Community Hospital Intensive Care Unit staff, physicians and surgeons for the exceptional care provided to her during her hospitalization. In memory of Bernice, donations can be made to the Sturgeon Community Hospital Foundation, 201 Boudreau Rd, St. Albert, AB, T8N 6C4. http://www.sturgeonhospitalfoundation.org/.