After a courageous battle with cancer, Bernice Fornarolo (née Van der Wee) passed away on Monday, March 24th, 2025, in Ottawa, at the age of 91. She was the beloved wife of the late George Fornarolo.
Bernice will be deeply missed by her children, Gail, Gloria (Wil), Patricia (Ted), Gary (Sandra), and Michael (Diane). She is the cherished grandmother of Emily (Michael), Kaitlyn, Bryan (Megan), Sophia, Anna, Justin, and Lauren.
She is survived by her dear brother Ronald (Lise), brother-in-law Joseph Fornarolo (Ginny), and her large extended family. She is preceded in death by her siblings Gerald (Johanne) and Edmund (Doreen).
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre staff, the St. Elizabeth Health nurses, and to Dr. Reena Goindi (Community Palliative Medicine Associates) for her compassion, warmth, and exceptional palliative care.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bernice’s life at Beechwood National Memorial Centre (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), on Monday, March 31, 2025. Visitation will begin at noon, followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. in Beechwood’s Sacred Space, then the interment at Beechwood Cemetery. Please join the family for a reception afterwards.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society in Bernice’s memory would be greatly appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Tom and Mary Battershill
Rick, Angie, Renee and Matthew Sbrissa
Our deepest sympathies to your family. You’re in our thoughts and prayers. Bernice was a wonderful, kind and gentle person. Wish your strength in this difficult time.
Rest in Peace. And may Peace, Comfort, and Blessings be with the family.