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Jon Bernard

Image by Nick Andréka

JONATHAN MICHAEL BERNARD

January 25, 1970 - May 13, 2023

With heavy hearts, we announce that Jon Bernard passed away on May 13, 2023 in the Grace Hospital at the age of 53 years.

 

Jon is survived by his wife of 14 years Joyce Bernard; sons, Tyler (wife Courtney); Michael (partner Taylor); Bailey (partner Kayla); grand dogs Rocko and Zeus; and extended family and friends.

 

Jon was born in Macgregor, Manitoba. Jon started his career in the hospitality industry in Portage la Prairie and reached his goal of General Manager of Canad Inns Portage la Prairie (previous Westwood Inn). Jon continued his love for construction joining Canad Inns in Winnipeg at corporate head office as their director of construction and renovations.

 

Jon’s love of all-things construction led his path to PreCon Builders where Jon was a senior project manager and eventually became a partner.

 

Jon has so many passions, loves and interests from anything IT to learning CAD design. He loved to cook, fish, shoot his new rifle, and just loved life. Jon had a particular love with wood and could create beautiful pieces of furniture, was known to build a deck at the lake in a day. Mostly Jon created whatever Joyce brought to him to make for family and friends out of wood.

 

Jon leaves behind an unbelievable amount of friends from work, lake, home, and anyone in between.

 

A Celebration of Jon’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 603 Wellington Crescent (Unitarian Church) at Academy Road.

 

Jon's family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Roberta

May 30, 2023 at 8:40 PM

Thinking of you Joyce and the boys on this unexpected, devastating loss.  I can’t imagine your pain and grief at this time. My heart goes out to you all!   Roberta & Jayson Witt

Kassi

May 28, 2023 at 7:31 AM

I first met Jon in 2016 and he immediately made me feel so welcomed with his kind gestures and dad jokes. Jon was the type of guy that would do anything for anyone and expect nothing in return. I lived behind Jon for a few years and I remember after Jon got a snowblower and every winter after a large snow storm he would be out all day in the freezing cold making sure that all his neighbours sidewalks and parking spots were cleared. He even snow blowed the back lane so I could make it to the Main road in my small car without getting stuck. And I swear he had a smile the entire time no matter how cold and miserable it was outside. It’s hard to believe that he’s gone and he will be so missed. My sincerest condolences to Joyce and Jon’s sons and everyone else who loved him. He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in Peace Jon.

Robert Shindleman

May 25, 2023 at 3:17 PM

We had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jon for many years. He was an outstanding man, full of integrity, honesty and with a strong work ethic. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our deepest sympathy to Jon's family. -- Sandy and Robert Shindleman and the entire Shindico Team.

Janice Copsey

May 24, 2023 at 1:12 PM

My deepest condolences to you Joyce and family.  I know how hard it is to lose your loved one at such a young age.  Take care of yourself.  

Barry Spencer

May 24, 2023 at 11:00 AM

My condolences to Joyce and families. Jon was a great guy to chat with every time I visited the lake.  

Richard and Teresa Chamberlin

May 23, 2023 at 10:49 PM

We first met Jon when he came to our door with a petition to have  the back lane paved.  And thanks to  Jon's enthusiasm and community spirit,  he made a big impact to improve our neighborhood.  Over many  winters we as well as other neighbours greatly appreciated Jon's kind gesture of clearing the snow from our sidewalks. We could always count on a wave from Jon whenever we passed him driving his truck.  Our sincere condolences to Joyce and family.  Neighbours Richard and Teresa. ❤

Carrie and Ron Risley

May 23, 2023 at 1:14 PM

Jon was a wonderful man and neighbour!  He looked out for all of us, e. g. backlane petition, snow blowing our walkways, helping out in anyway, and always friendly/interested. We truly appreciated Jon and will miss him. Our deepest condolences to Joyce and family.❤

Laura Imperadeiro

May 23, 2023 at 10:34 AM

Local 4642 send our sincerest condolences for you at this time. You have our deepest sympathy and unwavering support. Wishing you comfort, courage and support at this time of sorrow.   

Miss Smith

May 22, 2023 at 8:22 PM

Jonathon was one of my first students at Victoria School in Portage. He was always polite and respectful and had a great smile. I am saddened to hear of his passing. He loved coming to the gym.

Freddie P

May 22, 2023 at 4:54 PM

Although we haven’t spoken in years, all the memories feel like yesterday. More than a best friend, Jonathan was my brother. Our days at Club West playing softball to our days with the Westward Village Inn/Resort playing darts, curling or taking the staff on at paintball. Playing rugby with the Wolves to staying up until 4 online as Ro@d-Kill playing America’s Army. Our sincerest condolences, a very big hug to you Joyce and thoughts with the boys. You are missed my friend.

Robin & Gregg McCartney

May 22, 2023 at 2:48 PM

We have good memories of Jon from school and when he was at the Westward when we were younger. Condolences to all his family and friends. ❤

Jan and Bill Sagurski

May 22, 2023 at 2:36 PM

The world has truly lost a most wonderful human being . We have never met anyone quite like him before............a strong life presence to be sure . A man most giving in everything .........his time , his help , his humor and so  much more. A thoughtful and loving man to his wife Joyce , and thoughtful and giving to his friends . . Our deepest condolences to his wife Joyce and his family . We will really miss him out at the lake  .Rest in peace Jon .❤

Corrie Inkster (Blanchard)

May 21, 2023 at 11:03 PM

Jon and I became friends when he worked at Club West in Portage.  I knew of him for years, but we never really hung around.  We had many great times together with all the Club staff! Him, Fred Pritchard and I would end up at 7-11 after the Club closed and would play the video games there!  Lol!  My whole family thought he was a great guy! Our lives took separate paths and we lost touch with each other, but I will never forget him and the friendship we shared.  My deepest condolences to his wife, Joyce and to his sons and families. ❤

Kim

May 21, 2023 at 10:49 AM

Jonathan was my hero when I was a kid. He was 6 years older than me, but he was the coolest guy in the neighborhood.  He was tough as f#&k, had the raddest breakdancing moves (remember this is the mid 80s, where you weren't cool unless you knew how to break), always had cute girls around him, and he was a take-no-shit dude....total badass!!  When I first saw the movie "Dangerous Minds", the character "Emilio" kinda reminded me of him.  My biggest aspiration in life in my 10 year old brain back then was to become a member of "Night Crew", the baddest of the bad....and Jonathan was the leader. I remember working my ass off at breakdancing just to try and impress him. While he was a badass, he was always cool with me and never snubbed me once, dispite being older and so much cooler. All I knew back then was I wanted to grow up to be just like him.  Obviously Jon went on to really great success in life, eventually becoming a partner in Pre-Con Builders. He is actually the epitome of one of those "turn your life around" success stories. I had the great fortune to run into him about 20 years ago while he was managing Canadinns. I had a few (ok, more than a few lol) drinks in me, so I proceeded to tell him how cool I thought he was and how much of an impressionable impact he had on my childhood. We talked for a good half hour that night and had lots of laughs about the ol days. I'll never forget his parting words to me... "Well I'm glad that we  grew out of that bullshit, because we both could have quite easily taken a different path in life ".  We weren't super close or anything... I was probably just some annoying punk ass kid to him. But I think he appreciated what I had to say to him. I'm now grateful that we had that opportunity. Point is, don't EVER hesitate to tell someone just what they mean or meant to you, no matter how miniscule you might think it is....it might mean the world to the other person. Do it, because one day you might not have that same opportunity.  My heart goes out to Jon's wife, children, brother, sisters, huge extended family, and his friends. I'm so sorry for all your loss.💔😔 RIP Jonathan.   I wanted to share this post made by Landeyn Aymont with Jon’s family to know that Jon was a very well known guy back in PlaP and that many still have cherished memories of him and his great heart ❤

Autumn Vandene

May 21, 2023 at 12:07 AM

Was shocked to hear this today. Had lots of good times cruising the ave and going to  parties back in school days. My condolences to all. Very sad. 

Donna Cooper

May 20, 2023 at 10:49 PM

Johnathan was a awesome guy! Big heart and would do anything for anyone !  I haven’t seen him in years ! Condolences to the family ! 

Bonnie Nickel

May 20, 2023 at 9:14 PM

So sorry for the loss of Jon, thought and prayers to the entire family. I enjoyed working with Jon at Westward Village Inn/Westward resort and conference center, Jon was a great boss. 

John & Dominga Delorme

May 20, 2023 at 7:55 PM

My condolences to the family. Fond school memories my husband and I share from school! Way to young to leave all the amazing successes he built! RIP Jonathan! 

Candace Wiens

May 20, 2023 at 7:26 PM

My sincere condolences,  I am very sad to hear this. I went to school with Jon, and attended a few parties with him. I'm so sorry for his loss. 

Grant Paul

May 20, 2023 at 4:09 PM

My sincere condolences too Joyce an the rest of the family. I went too school with Jon from a young age an also worked with Jon at Club West in Portage la Prarie. He was a great guy an know he will be missed.

Maggie McMillan

May 20, 2023 at 3:41 PM

I am deeply saddened by the loss of this remarkable man.  I worked with Joyce at NMC and when I met Jon for the first time, I also gravitated to his loving beautiful demeanour and smile.  Jon would give the shirt off his back for anyone he connected with.   Jon & Joyce would help and support anyone in need which is a true reflection of both these incredible people who have become part of my family.  Jon’s lasting impression on those he met was one of love, caring and generosity. His giving manner, his love for his family and especially his love for Joyce was insurmountable. He will leave a big hole in everyone’s heart. Joyce and family you all have my deepest sympathy and unwavering support. I am wishing you the strength, peace comfort and courage during this most difficult time. Joyce I will always be there for you when you need anything.  Sending you all my love. ❤

Sheri Bernard

May 20, 2023 at 1:10 PM

My condolences to you Joyce, his children and all who loved him.  I know that his family may not have been close over the past years but I could still write a thousand wonderful memories or more on here. He will always be my brother and forever in my heart. He will truly be missed by all 5 of his siblings, father, nieces, nephews and many relatives. We love you Johnathan. I know you are with Mom now.  Until we see you again….

Ruth Schappert

May 20, 2023 at 1:04 AM

Joyce we are deeply saddened by the news of Jon’s passing. We will miss his laughter and humour in “the north end” at the lake. I so enjoyed sharing stories on the deck with you both on a slow camping morning.  Hugs to all of you and our condolences.  Ruth & Doug. 

Kara

May 19, 2023 at 8:51 PM

Our deepest condolences Joyce and family. Such a shock. Thinking of you in this difficult time.  Wade and Kara 

Gayleen Peloquin

May 19, 2023 at 2:51 PM

Joyce, I am so saddened by this news. My sincerest condolences to you and your family. Hold your memories close ❤

Joanne Frechette

May 19, 2023 at 1:12 PM

My sincere condolences to Joyce and her family and friends. You're in my thoughts everyday❤

Lisa Konowich & family

May 19, 2023 at 9:28 AM

Jon & Joyce were our neighbours at The Willows campground in Ontario for many years. Sadly the “lake family” will never be the same. Missing the person who had the best sense of humour! Jon was always there willing to help us with anything. He was always trying new recipes and Joyce walking over to give us samples.  My son Dylan was spoiled by them both…which he had no complaints with that. Their marriage inspired me. The love they shared doesn’t happen that often.  Anyone is lucky to fall in love once but 2X is rare. The world lost an amazing man & we lost a good friend. Joyce & family we send our love to you all during this very difficult time.  With sympathy & love Darryl, Dylan, Lisa & Berkley❤

Marie Kopp

May 19, 2023 at 7:11 AM

I worked with Joyce at Marion school and we quickly became friends to the point that my daughters call her Aunty. Of course with Joyce came Jon. They were partners in everything they did and she often volunteered his services for many, many things to help anyone in need. Her favourite saying is « oh, Jon can do that for you ». Her love for him was endless, and she praised his many talents and his good looks. They welcomed everyone into their circle. I loved hearing their stories about their boys, their friends from the lake and friends through their work adventures. I loved hearing Joyce’s  detailed instructions for him to follow and him taking it all in with his beautiful smile. I would see a prank on TikTok and send it to him for ideas to prank her with and he would answer with ´the worlds not big enough for me to hide in »  I am so sorry for this huge loss to Joyce and the boys. With time and healing know that he’s with you always.  Love, Marie, Kurt, Bianka and Annaka Kopp

Deborah Bonser

May 18, 2023 at 6:42 PM

I remember when Joyce started to date Jon. She to.D me that she thought he was so handsome. She could just park him on a chair , sit and look at him. He was doing a project for Canad Inns in Brandon, and Rob and I had business in Brandon at the same time. I wanted to meet this man, that had my sister all a twitter and had her smiling constantly. We drove to Brandon and surprised Jon while he was working. I told him that I was Joyce’s older sister and had come to meet him and to check him out. He had to be good enough for her! We found Jon to be engaging and funny and very open about his feeling for Joyce. I came away with thoughts of “ what a nice guy”! There were times that Jon tested my patience though. During a memorable dinner at his in-laws , lemon pie was being served for dessert. He came up to me and handed me a slice. He asks- doesn’t  this pie smell really lemony? So bend my head to smell it, when he moves his hand under mine and  smacks me in the face with the pie. I had meringue all over my face! He’s laughing so hard, that I had to join him in the silliness of it.. It’s a memory I’ll never forget. I always said that there would be a payback , but now I have to wait until we meet again. He will be missed beyond any words I can say . Thank you Jon for loving my sister for all these past years and being such a great step parent to our Micheal.
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