Bernice Helen Rodgers (nee Dolejsi), age 87, of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, passed away peacefully to be with her Saviour on April 25th, 2024.
Bernice was born on April 26th, 1936, in Zeneta, Saskatchewan, a middle child of eight born to Wendell and Ethel Dolejsi. Shortly after her birth, the family relocated to Manitoba, eventually settling in MacGregor.
On April 9th, 1955, Bernice embarked on a lifelong journey with her husband, William (Bill) Arthur Rodgers. Together, they built a beautiful life, initially farming in the Rosehill District before moving to Lavenham in 1963. Their union was blessed with nine children, whom they raised with love and dedication. Bernice was known for her incredible work ethic, supporting her husband in all aspects of their family farm life. She was not only a diligent worker but also a devoted mother and grandmother. Bernice had a passion for gardening and spent countless hours nurturing her plants and preserving their bounty through canning and freezing. She was also an exceptional baker, known for large batches of doughnuts, bread, cakes, and cookies, as well as for crafting beautifully decorated birthday cakes.
Her creative spirit extended beyond the kitchen, Bernice loved sewing, embroidery, quilting, knitting, crocheting, and various crafts. Bernice also found joy in solving puzzles; her favorites were Sudoku and jigsaw puzzles.
In her 40s, Bernice found solace and strength in her faith, accepting Christ as her Saviour. She became a member of the Bible Baptist Church of Portage la Prairie, where she served as an AWANA leader for many years.
In 2004, Bill and Bernice retired from the farm to Portage la Prairie. In her final years, Bernice resided at Lion's Prairie Manor.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, Wendell and Ethel Dolejsi; her siblings, Evelyn Corrigal, Cecil Dolejsi, Leslie Dolejsi, Kenneth Dolejsi, Wallace Dolejsi, and Florence Earhart; her son-in-law, Robert Alt; her great-granddaughter, Kylie Stewart; and great-grandson, Wells Blatchford.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Bill, her loving children, Donna Kuenzi (Mark), Art Rodgers (Maria), Dave Rodgers (Lorraine Higham), Les Rodgers, Cathy Rodgers, Larry Rodgers, Karen DiPietro (Angelo), Tim Rodgers (Jennifer), and Helen Rodgers Alt (Delnel Morse). Bernice is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Josiah Kuenzi (Tiffany), Ezra Kuenzi (Gina), Daniel Kuenzi (Evelyn), Hannah Morgan (Kyle), Karis Wiebe (Nathaniel), Rochelle Young (Adam), Larissa Stewart (Scott), Justin Kitching, Christen Rodgers, Ashley Rodgers, Ember Rodgers (Tyrone Taylor), Taylor Blatchford (Brad), Celina DiPietro, Brianna DiPietro, Olivia Rodgers, and Sophia Rodgers; 27 great-grandchildren, her brother, Milton Dolejsi, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service to celebrate Bernice's life will be held at the MNP Exhibition Center on Island Park on Tuesday, April 30th, 2024 at 11:00 am with viewing 1 hour prior to the service. A private family burial will take place at the Rossendale Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Valley View Bible Camp (https://valleyviewbiblecamp.com/about/donate) or Heart & Stroke Foundation (https://www.heartandstroke.ca/). To leave messages of condolence or to share memories, please visit http://www.ronaldmoffitmemorialservices.com
The family wishes to thank all those who helped care for her during the last couple weeks. We deeply appreciate all the prayers and support from relatives and friends. Bernice will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to her family.
Ronald Moffit Memorial Services in care of arrangements.