Peacefully at home surrounded by family, at the age of 92. Adoring wife and beloved mom, Bernice is survived by Peter, her doting husband and best friend, son Paul and daughters Ursula and Sue, and will be deeply missed by sons-in-law Tim and Tom, and many extended family members and friends.
Daughter of the late Szczepan and Zofia, Bernice was a proud first-generation Canadian, born in Hamilton, Ontario. In 1947, Bernice followed her parents to Nowa Huta/Cracow, Poland and, in 1951, attended the University of Cracow where she met and fell in love with her soulmate, Peter. They married on September 9, 1956, and over 68 years built a wonderful life together, across two continents and three countries. They settled in Ottawa in 1981, where they raised their children and became active members of Ottawa’s Polish community.
Bernice’s love of reading a good book and gardening with Peter was outmatched only by her love of hosting a great party. To those who attended them, the Nawrot annual backyard BBQs were legendary; Bernice’s famous roasted potatoes, homemade coleslaw and raspberry chiffon cake never disappointed. Bernice also took great pleasure in travelling throughout North America and the Caribbean, sometimes with friends, sometimes with family, but always with Peter by her side.
Bernice’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the caregivers at Ontario Health at Home for providing compassionate and attentive care for the past four years, to fulfill Bernice’s wish to live at home in comfort. Bernice’s family also deeply thanks all the medical and administrative staff at Queensway Carleton Hospital, Ottawa Hospital and Greenbelt Family Health for their professional, kind and caring services.
Family and Friends are invited to a time of visitation on Tuesday July 22, 2025 from 12:00pm-2:00pm at Beechwood Funeral Home, 280 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa, Celebration of life to take place at 2:00pm followed by burial in the Beechwood Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to a time of reception at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Bernice’s name to the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation is greatly appreciated. Condolences may be left at beechwood https://www.beechwoodottawa.ca/en/services/bernice-nawrot
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Paul Kerluke
RICHARD SZYMCZYK
It is with the deepest sadness I learned of Bernice's passing and may I extend my most heartfelt condolences. We grew up together as youngsters and good friends in Hamilton along with her cousins Pola and Eddy before the family left for Poland, and I was privileged to be at her and Peter's wedding in 1956. She was always full of laughter, enjoyed the Polish community events in Hamilton, and started me on my accordion career. Family will always be in my heart and memories.
Sue, my deepest sympathies to you and to your family for the loss of your mother.