Beatrice "Bea" Caroline Lee
November 8, 1937 – November 5, 2021

Beatrice Caroline Lee (Berglund) was born on November 8, 1937, at her grandma's home in Kennedy, Saskatchewan. She was an only child to Peter and Delce Berglund. Bea's childhood days were spent growing up on the Kennedy farm. Being the only child, she spent a lot time with her parents and entertaining herself, reading books, playing with her dolls and spending time with the animals. Unbeknownst to the many farm animals, they were "sick" and in need of medical attention as Bea would often treat and bandage their limbs. Her mom would cut strips of cloth for Bea to use and put in her "medical bag". This was an early indicator of what would become a long nursing career.

Bea was a daddy's girl who could often be found sitting on his lap. Even as an adult, it was her favorite place to sit. One of her favourite memories was when her dad brought her home a pony. It taught itself how to unlatch the gate and would stick his head through the kitchen window looking for an apple.

In her high school years, she would spend winters at her Grandma's house as it was often difficult traveling to town due to the weather. After graduation, Bea moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she attended the Misericordia General Hospital School of Nursing. She was known for her easy-going manner and uniqueness by her classmates. Some of her famous expressions were "we should get together and have a party" and "what have you gals got to read"? One person in particular who had an impact on Bea was Mother St. Odilon, Director of Nursing Service and Facility (who Bea fondly referred to as "MSO"). She often spoke of her. One story that sticks out was when MSO had seen her sneaking out of residence, climbing through the window and down the tree. The next day she could hear the sound of MSO's rosary beads rattling from down the hall coming towards her. "Hey girl, I saw you climbing out of your window last night". Bea could have been in serious trouble for this had MSO not had such a soft spot for her. Bea's love of nursing also rubbed off on her mom. Through the encouragement of Bea, her mom Delce applied and was accepted into the LPN nursing program at Misericordia. She too was fortunate enough to also be taught by MSO. Bea was extremely proud of this. We would like to note that this Berglund however did not climb out windows.

Bea's nursing career spanned over 40 years. Throughout her profession, she worked at the Brandon General Hospital in various areas such as the ICU, Emergency department, Surgical ward and finally at the Victoria Order of Nursing. She loved every aspect about being a nurse. She was so nurturing and compassionate towards everyone she met.

On April 3, 1960, Bea's life changed when she met the love of her life, Jack Lee, on a blind date in Moosomin, Saskatchewan. This was the beginning of their 58-year love story. They married on September 16th, 1961, in Kennedy and eventually moved to Brandon where they planted their roots and called home. Their family soon grew with Cameron who was born December 6, 1962, followed by Kevin on January 30th, 1966.

Their summers were spent camping in their tent camper with the boys and Bea's parents. There are so many fond memories of the countless trips to Kenosee Lake while traveling in the station wagon. Bea loved spending time with her family.

Their family continued to grow with the addition of grandchildren; Courtney and Kiah (Cam), Nicole and Owen (Kevin and Andras). She was a warm and loving grandma, always boasting about how proud of each of them she was. She always had a hug and an I love you. We also can't forget that Bea's love for animals also continued with her grand pets (Chief and Eddy) who were spoiled with endless cuddles and treats. Bea also had a very special relationship with her daughter-in-law Andras. Many hours were spent talking, laughing and walking the aisles of Winners together.

In their retirement years, Jack and Bea loved to travel with their 5th wheel trailer which they took from coast to coast and throughout the United States. They also did several trips visiting Dollywood, Washington, and Graceland to name a few. Bea also loved spending time at the family cottage the "Leefy Lodge" at Oak Lake. She loved walking up and down the cabin rows.

Bea had a few noteworthy passions. One was shopping. She was the best shopper. it didn't matter the store; she rarely came home empty handed. Jack was right there beside her, in charge of the pickup and transportation of the goods. Despite her hip and knee replacements, this still could not slow her down. Bea also always had her camera in hand, capturing so many family moments and memories. There are endless pictures and albums, and we mean ENDLESS. Her other love was reading. Quite often you would find Bea in her rocking chair, with her McDonald's coffee and ice water, surrounded by newspapers, books and magazines. She would read the paper from front page to last. She kept letters, cards and news article clippings just so she could re-read them at a later time.

Bea was tough and resilient, in that she endured and overcame several health issues, however the most painful challenge she would endure would be the loss of Jack, her best friend and the love of her life. Tragically on June 1, 2018, Jack passed away. It was rare that you would see one without the other, so being on her own was an adjustment. Bea moved to Rotary Villa in Brandon where she spent the next 3 years and then ultimately at Fairview Care Home.

On Friday, November 5, 2021, Bea peacefully passed away. Bea had a vibrant and lively personality and always made people around her laugh with her quick wit and sense of humour. She made friends everywhere she went.

A private family Graveside Service will be held at Rosewood Memorial Gardens. Donations in memory of Bea may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 185 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 2B7.

Mom, we love you so much and miss you terribly. We know when you opened your eyes again, Dad was there waiting to hold you once again in his arms.

A special thank you to the staff at Rotary Villa and Fairview Care Home, who looked after and cared for our Mom during the times when we could not be there.

A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says, "Grieve not for me".
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song.
The good life I lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you,
Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.
Remembering all, how I truly was blessed.
Continue traditions, no matter how small.
Go on with your life, don't worry about falls.
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin.
Until the day comes, we're together again.
-Unknown