LEE, Bernard Joseph,
age 74, of Ottawa, Ontario, passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at the Toronto General Hospital. Born in Hong Kong to Joseph William Lee and Maria Christina Ozorio, he moved to Canada at the age of 19 to study engineering at McGill University, Montreal.
Beloved husband of Lynne (née Watts). Cherished father of Christopher (Katherine), Russell and Cynthia (Neil). Proud grandfather of Allison, Sasha, Nathan, Millie, Jacqueline and twins on the way. Great-grandfather to Hunter and Jazzlyn. Dear brother of Astrid (Late Joseph Mendes) and fond brother-in-law of Geoffrey Watts and Debbie Jacobsen. Will be dearly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Beginning his career as a young engineer with Alcan Aluminum and finishing as Manager, Engineering Services, PWGSC, Bernie finally discovered his true passion in retirement as a figure skater. Partnering with Lynne in dance and pair figure skating, Bernie lit up the ice, as he did our lives, with his familiar smile and loving heart.
Family and friends are invited to visit Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery & Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Ave. (east of Vanier Parkway) Wednesday June 11th from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral will be held Thursday at Immaculate Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church, 1758 Alta Vista Drive, at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Beechwood Cemetery, and reception from 1-3 p.m. in the Borden & Fleming Suites of The Beechwood National Memorial Centre.
In lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to the Cardiovascular Surgery Research Fund – C/O Toronto General Hospital - In Memory of Bernard Lee -200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4
Digital Guestbook
Kathy and Chris Canessa
Emilio Cheuy
'...boys of courage , boys of daring
full of manliness and will
hearts not for danger caring
made to conquer every will ...'
Bernie a true La Salle Son !
Our prayers for you and family.
In their sorrow include us,
The Cheuy family
Nancy Hamilton
Dear Lynne, Chris, Russ and Cindy,
A friend once said to me, "people skate the way they lead their lives." Bernie did just that. He skated joyfully, and with gusto. He knew how to play and "skated and lived" playfully with a twinkle in his eye, a song in his heart and a catchy tune always at the ready. Most importantly, he shared his joy with others, welcoming all, regardless of age or background into his ever-expanding network of skating friends.
I'll close by passing along a tribute, Lynne, to you, Chris, Russ and Cindy. During one of our many après skating conversations, I asked him what he was most proud of in his life. Without hesitation he said, "my marriage and my family". It brought a tear to my eye then, as it does now. However, the tear is quickly replaced by a smile when I think of all the love and joy you shared with your beloved Bernie.
With love and gratitude to you all for sharing such a wonderful husband and father with his friends,
Nancy Hamilton
David Christie
I did not know Bernie and Lynne well but was always impressed and heartened by their kindness , humour and grace, both on and off the ice.
Sincere condolences to Lynne and family and all those who love him. I am sure there are many.
Geneviève Desjardins
I was very saddened to heat of Bernard Lee's passing, he has been a great neighbor for many years and a kind friend to my parents. my thoughts are with your whole family during this difficult time, my sincere condolences,
Geneviève Finsten-Desjardins
Ron Hierlihy
Lynne. I was deeply saddened to hear of Bernie's tragic passing. Although I didn't know him, I'm sure he was a wonderful man. We extend our deepest sympathies to you and your extended family. We will keep you in our prayers during this difficult time.
Sincerely, Ron and Judy Hierlihy
Dan, Yumiko and Sophie Evermonde
The news came with a strong shock to us.
Bernie was very physically fit and active.
Lynne and Bernie formed the ideal couple.
I still remember both skating magically on ice
while watching Bernie's videos.
Our deepest condolences to Lynne and the loved ones.
Dan. Yumiko and Sophie
Andy and Eleanor Pau
We will miss Bernie's cheerful smiles and friendly disposition. Had wonderful times together selling icecream as a summer job when we were students.
Lynne, we send you and family our deepest condolences.
Nobuko, Patrick and Sean
Bernie,
Your beautiful smile, gentle and kind soul will be always remembered by all of us. You will be greatly missed.
Lynne, our thoughts are with you. Please accept our deepest sympathies to you and your family at this most difficult time.
With all our love,
Nobuko, Patrick and Sean
Sylvie and Geoff
Our sincere condolences to Lynne, Chris, Russ and Cindy. Bernie will be dearly missed and we will always cherish the wonderfull memories of our get togethers here at the "Ranch"
Deepest sympathies and condolences. Nothing compared to the loss of a loved one. Please know you are all in our prayers and in our thoughts. Enjoy all the loving memories that reside in all of your hearts. Hugs