Obituary of MASON – Bernard Michael

March 15, 1920 – March 28, 2010 Bernie Mason of Calgary passed away on Sunday, March 28, 2010 at the age of 90 years. Bernie was born into a large farm family just outside of Strathmore, AB. He left home at an early age and attended SAIT to become a heavy duty mechanic. In his spare time, he became an accomplished figure skater, spending many hours at the Glencoe Club. War took him to Europe to serve in the Canadian Army and he returned to Canada with a new wife in hand. He spent many years as a mechanic, however in the 60’s found his true passion in cross country skiing, eventually opening Nordic Ski and Sports. He was one of the pioneers of cross country skiing in Alberta, helping many people to not only get the proper equipment but spending the time to coach them on their technique. He was honoured as a lifetime member of Foothills Nordic Ski Club and spent many years skiing in his beloved mountains. During his later years, Bernie spent numerous hours volunteering at Pioneer Acres in Irricana, using his expertise to fix the old engines and share some of his knowledge with others. The annual event at Pioneer Acres, with the school children, was always a day that he looked forward to and he was very excited for this year’s event. Dad was a devoted husband and father, ensuring that his kids got to experience many activities including camping, water-skiing and snow skiing. Dad leaves Willy (Wilhelmina deWeerd) his wife of almost sixty-four years; sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and Danna of Calgary and Ron and Glenda of Red Deer; daughter and son-in-law Marg and Bruce Sorge of Calgary; and his grandchildren. He was predeceased by his mother and father, Mildred and Michael Mason; his brother Gerald and half brother Ken Mark. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E.) on Thursday, April 1, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Bernie Mason, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: (403) 256-9575.