M. Bernadette Bicko

BICKO, M. Bernadette (nee Kolaczynski) —

Passed away peacefully in Toronto on June 11, 2015 in her 110th year. Bernadette was a longtime resident of both The Junction and the Baby Point neighbourhoods. She was predeceased by her husband Bill Bicko, her parents Mathilda and Ignatius Kolaczynski, sisters Rita and Genevieve, brothers Frank and Joseph and nephews Michael Kole, Joe and Alfred Cole and Carl Pajak. She is survived by her nieces and nephews: Patricia Walton (Tom), Peter Kole (Elizabeth), Stephen Kole (Glenda), Mary Jane (Janie) Kole and Susan Kole (the late Michael), as well as 14 great-nieces and nephews plus 11 great-great-nieces and nephews. Bernadette first worked for Eaton's in accounting. During WWII Bernie worked for the IOF (Independent Order of Foresters). The majority of her work life afterwards was at Union Bedding Co., where she continued to work until she was 75, when Rita asked her to retire so that they could continue their travels. Bernadette received her education from St. Rita's and St. Cecilia's elementary schools, Loretto Abbey and the Shaw Business School. She was a longtime parishioner of St. James Catholic Church and also volunteered her accounting skills for the church, with her sister Rita, for many decades. She was an avid bridge player, sports fan and travelled with her dear friends Rosa Malia and Father "Bud" Quesnelle. Bernadette lived her life to the fullest. We wish to express our thanks to the staff of Runnymede Health Centre, 4 West, for their exceptional care and thoughtfulness. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 16th from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Lynett Funeral Home (3299 Dundas St. W., 1 block east of Runnymede Rd.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, June 17th at 10:00 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church (728 Annette St., one block east of Jane St.). Burial to follow at Mount Hope Catholic Cemetery (305 Erskine Ave., Toronto).