November 6, 1955 – March 18, 2025
Raymond “Joe” Bernier, beloved husband of Linda and father to Michael, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Foothills Hospital after a long battle with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Despite the last few debilitating years, he maintained his sense of humour and a positive attitude.
Prior to his illness, Joe, Linda, and Michael enjoyed many years visiting at the family cabin in Canmore, AB. He was an avid fly fisherman—a passion he passed on to his son Michael.
The family was also fortunate to enjoy yearly winter vacations, often at Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, Mexico. They had many snorkeling adventures, and Joe developed an interest in saltwater aquariums to enjoy the beautiful underwater life at home. Joe’s final aquarium was a 225-gallon thing of beauty.
In 2003, the Bernier family moved to an acreage northwest of Cochrane, AB. There, Joe embraced country living and Linda’s passion for horses. He enjoyed yard work, landscaping, and watching any wildlife passing by. Joe retired from ATCO Gas after 23 years of dedicated service.
The family has numerous people to thank, including Dr. Olga Tourin, Dr. Tristan Pagon, and Dr. Laura Stinton. During his time in hospital care, he was surrounded by the compassionate attention of numerous dedicated staff members, too many to mention by name.
Dr. Martin LaBrie from Palliative Care made it possible for Joe to return home for a few days, which was his greatest desire. Thanks also go to Cochrane Home Care, and our great neighbours who have been so helpful over the past few years.
Besides his loving wife Linda and son Michael, Joe is survived by his brother-in-law Mark, his sister-in-law Heike, and nieces, Lara and Rachel.
A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held this summer at the Bernier family home. Please contact [email protected] directly to receive service details when they are later determined.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Lung Association, P.O. Box 4500, Station South, Edmonton, AB T6E 6K2, Telephone: 1 (888) 566 – 5864, www.ablung.ca/give-back/donate/.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Joe’s family at www.MHFH.com.
In living memory of Joe Bernier, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes.
