A Pillar of Family: remembering Bernardette Pereira (1932-2025)

the community in Bolton,Ontario,mourns the loss of Bernardette Pereira,who passed away peacefully on Sunday,April 6,2025,at the remarkable age of 92. Her life, marked by resilience and unwavering devotion to family, leaves behind a legacy of love and strength.

From Terceira to Brampton: A Journey of Courage

Born in Terceira, Portugal, on April 23, 1932, Bernardette’s early life presented significant challenges. Widowed at a young age due to Tuberculosis, she demonstrated immense courage by immigrating to Canada in 1967 with her daughter, Ester. They established a new life in Brampton, Ontario, built on hard work and deeply held values.

Immigration to Canada has seen various trends over the decades. According to recent data from Statistics Canada, family sponsorship remains a significant pathway for immigrants, highlighting the importance of family reunification, a value clearly embodied by Bernardette’s journey.

“Vavo“: The Heart of the Family

bernardette, affectionately known as “Vavo” to all, dedicated her life to her family. She was a loving mother to Ester and a devoted grandmother to Janine and Neil, providing them with a home and playing a fundamental role in their upbringing. Her tough yet sweet and funny nature touched the lives of everyone she knew. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love, especially for her family, will be fondly remembered.

She touched the lives of all who knew her with her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love, especially for her family.

Bernardette instilled in her family the values of compassion, hard work, and the importance of family bonds. She cherished simple moments and found joy in spending time with her loved ones.Interestingly, she also had a passion for wrestling, a hobby she enjoyed since the early 1980s.

A Lasting Legacy

Bernardette Pereira is survived by her daughter, Ester Viveiros; her grandchildren, Janine Gianforcaro (Rick) and Neil Viveiros (Sharon); her grate-grandchildren, Melana and Sabrina Gianforcaro, Sarah Viveiros, and Sean Lethbridge; her sister, Maria Olivia; and many other loving family members and friends.

Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her, and her love will continue to guide them. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Funeral Arrangements

The arrangements to honour Bernardette’s life are as follows:

• Visitation: Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 5pm to 8pm at Egan funeral Home, 203 Queen St. S (Hwy 50), Bolton (905-857-2213).
• Funeral service: Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 11am at Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen St. S (Hwy 50), Bolton.
• entombment: Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 7300 Hwy 27, Woodbridge.

Condolences and Memorial Donations

The family appreciates condolences, which can be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Headwaters Health Care Foundation (www.hhcfoundation.com), supporting healthcare in the community.