WRIGHT, Bernard Norman, Lieutenant-Colonel (Retired) Canadian Provost Corps and Security Branch. Served in Canada, Germany and Vietnam. After a 33-year military career, served 16 years with the UN in humanitarian operations in more than a dozen countries in Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. After a lengthy battle with prostate cancer, followed by a stroke, he passed away on the 27th of January in his 78th year. Husband of Doreen Way, previously married to Marie Lucie Marguerite Wright (née Gorham). Very proud father of Kevin, Ottawa; Deborah, Ottawa; and Neil (Sandra Anastacio), Milton. Grandfather of his amazing and talented grandchildren Katie, Emily, Meghan, and Caitlin. Pre-deceased by his father (Roy), mother (Kathleen Veronica O’Neill), brothers Lawrence (Florence); Terence (Marjorie); and sister Shirley Hemming (Eddie). Youngest sibling to his sister Joan Lochrie (John), Abbotsford, B.C. Bern dearly loved his extended family of nieces and nephews, making a visit West annually. He and Doreen loved adventurous travel and continued to do so to the end. He chose round-the-world travels, visiting more than 110 countries in total. He had a passion for music, none more so than music provided by his sons. He took great pride in the ground-breaking success of his daughter who went through the minor league hockey scouting paces to become the first-ever female to secure a contract scouting for an NHL team. His pragmatism and understanding of the nature of his cancer, which had spread to virtually every bone in his body, allowed him to continue enjoying life. The limitations imposed by COVID restricted his access to those he loved and were his biggest source of sorrow. His positive attitude was contagious, making acceptance of his situation easier for all. Interment will be at the National Military Cemetery at the Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa in the spring and will be Covid protocol driven. A Celebration of Life will be held when COVID restrictions allow. Donations to the Military Police Fund for Blind Children through CanadaHelps.org would be appreciated instead of flowers.
Digital Guestbook
Margaret and Ron Sandelli
Tom St John (Maj Retd) CProC/Security Branch
The loss of another true professional is felt by his many friends and compatriots. I had the privilege of serving with a gentleman and a citizen of the world. Condolences to his family. The world will be a smaller place with your passing
Roy Martel
My condolences to you and yours Doreen.
Bernie was an authentic person, a real mensch (Yiddish)- a person of integrity, honesty, etc.
We will miss him for his outgoing personality, his sense of humor and the life/travel adventure stories at our FF luncheons.
Great memories. RIP
Ron Donovan
My sincere condolences to Doreen and to Bernie’s extended family. Bernie was a true friend and colleague. He was a superb Military Police Officer who made a significant contribution to the Canadian Forces Security Branch and in his post retirement career to the United Nations Humanitarian Operations. He will be missed. Rest In Peace my friend.
Leslie and Shak Wong
Our most sincere condolences to the Wright family.
Bob Grogan Colonel (Ret'd)
Sincerest condolences to Bernie's family on his passing. He was a fine credit to his military profession and it was a pleasure to have known him. May he rest in peace for eternity. God bless, Bernie!
Mark SQuirrell (Squiz)
Go gettem Bernie!! you were a champion on the humanitarian trail and had a positive influence on many that were in need. Loved working with you and thanks for being such a great guy and loyal friend. Squiz
Chris and Anita du Toit (South Africa)
Our sincere condolences to Doreen, children, grand children and rest of the family. Bernie was a great friend and a professional and wonderful friend. We worked together in the United Nations and recall great times together. We will miss him. God Bless the family and we thank God for His love, care and Grace that Bernie had in life.
Jerry and Nina Eisinga
We have many great memories of our time with Bernie in Lahr. Condolences to his family.
Dan Kendrick and family
Many fond memories of a true friend. Bernie's Family is in our thoughts and prayers.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to Bern's Family and Doreen. Bern was very special. Oh how we looked forward to them sharing their most recent adventures. Bern often shared intimate knowledge of the sites but mostly the people he photographed. Music was a great passion. We were drawn to him "Air orchestrating" a favourite opera never missing a single nuance. We all experienced the pure excitement when he saw one of his favourite people, most often Family or a friend. Thanks Bern for sharing your passion. We will miss you. R.I.P!