October 21st, 1936 – February 1st, 2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Bernadette Marie Smith-Gander (nee Polz). She joyfully reunites in heaven with the love of her life, Nigel, as well as her dear parents, Stephen Polz and Susanna Polz, and her brothers and sisters. She leaves behind her Son Anthony, her Daughter Pamela (Greg), and her Grandson, Stephen (Hanieh).
Bernie was born in the small town of Denzil, Saskatchewan on October 21st, 1936. She moved with her parents and two younger siblings to Maple Ridge in 1945. Bernie excelled at everything she did and never failed to light up every room she entered. Her positivity and energy were her hallmarks, earning her the nickname, the ‘energizer bunny’. Her laugh and joie d vie were infectious. Her love and generosity touched everyone she came into contact with. She was the best Mom anyone could ever ask for and shared her loving kindness with others who were not so fortunate. Her creative nature was expressed in her beautiful flower arrangements, her flair for fashion, and her delicious jams, jellies and pies.
Bernie’s sharp mind and devotion to community service earned her leadership roles in every organization she was a part of. She was an avid member of the Catholic Women’s League, the BC. Hydro Power Pioneers, the Thorn Hill Pumpkineers, and the Royal Sweethearts Red Hats, just to name a few.
Above all though was Bernie’s unwavering devotion to her Catholic faith. Her faith was both the foundation and cornerstone of her strength, compassion, and love for others. She truly lived her faith and served as an exemplar to others.
We would especially like to acknowledge the incredible skill, dedication and loving care provided to Bernie by the staff at Ridge Meadow’s Hospital.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held February 14th, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Parish, 22561 121 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC., with the interment to be held at Maple Ridge Cemetery following the service, at 1 p.m. Prayers will be held on Friday, February 13th, 2026, at St. Patrick’s, at 5 p.m., with viewing to follow.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Union Gospel Mission, https://donors.ugm.ca/-/NWEXAQRH?member=SSWTRHYG
A livestream of the service is available at: https://www.youtube.com/live/byhbruwLEho
Expression of sympathy can be made at GardenHill.ca