Bernie Whiteford

WAP-PISK-KI-KAKIW ISQUEO WHITE RAVEN WOMAN

WHITEFORD, Maria Bernice (Bernie) passed into the Spirit World at 7:30 PM, Thursday April 28, 2005 after a brief illness. Bernie is predeceased by her loving parents Joseph and Mary Louise Whiteford and sister, Lynda Pope. Bernie is survived by her loving husband, Peter Wynohrodnyk; sisters: Hazel Cardinal (Wes); Joyce Whiteford; Evelyn Carter-Whiteford; and Brenda Lou Whiteford; brother: Wallace (Wally) Whiteford and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Bernie in Moon & Wolf Blanket

Bernie Whiteford was a Cree First Nations Canadian woman. She had over 30 years of work experience in administration, sales and marketing, and negotiations.

In her early years, she utilized her sales and marketing skills to reap rewards such as having the opportunity to travel extensively overseas for many years.

In the late 80’s, Bernie became involved in First Nations politics. She shortly founded the cause that has consumed her full attention - the plight of Aboriginal women and children who are victims of violence. Her greatest drive for achievement had been creating a level and safe ground to rebuild First Nations family systems.

Bernie in her office

Bernie believed she was chosen for this difficult task by a higher authority because of her tenacious yet compassionate character. She believed a Family Tree that is strong and is full of love and respect for one another can share its branches to others who want to hold on for support and love to build on their own family trees.

Bernie felt she had been lucky to receive so many gifts in her life. She had had the love and support of her true friend and spouse of (20) twenty years. They worked and played together as a team. Her parents, who are also in the Spirit World, were her role models and they provided the ethics and values that guide her life.

Bernie, April 20, 2005

Her parents’ spirits were with her every day. Having the ability to forgive without carrying any ill feelings about unpleasant paths that crossed her life was a work in progress for her every day. Patience was tested and appreciated every day. Bernie said, “Life is so short to be negative and to complain—do your best and give it your all—everyone deserves to be happy.
We can all try, can't we?”

Donations can be made to the Helping Spirit Lodge Foundation. Condolences can be sent to helping_spirit@telus.net or hcardinal@telus.net.

More Photos of Bernie

Bernie with Choices Grads
Bert, Laura & Bernie	Natalie, Bernie & Laura
Bernie & Joe Fontana	Rita LeBrun & Bernie
Elder Bob & Bernie	Bernie cutting the ribbon