December 28, 1946 – December 24, 2024
We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Bernard Thomas Marchant, beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law and uncle who passed away peacefully at Cambridge Memorial Hospital on December 24, 2024 at the age of 77. He was surrounded by love, with his wife and daughters by his side.
Bernie leaves behind his devoted wife of 56 years, Marguerite. He is also survived by his two daughters, Rochelle Velacich (Jim) and Taryn Marchant (Jason Mabley). He was a beloved Gramps to four grandchildren: Dorian, Grace, Benjamin and Jackson. Bernie will also be dearly missed by his brother, Brian (and his daughters, Danielle and Nicole), as well as many nieces and nephews in both Canada and England. He is now reunited with his parents, Richard and Mae Marchant and his older brother, Terry.
Bernie was born in England on December 28, 1946. As a boy, he enjoyed sports, playing for his school soccer and cricket teams. After graduating from high school at the age of 15, he began his career in the grocery industry, training as a butcher. He immigrated to Canada in 1965, where he built his life and family. He met Marguerite in 1966; they married in 1968 and were blessed with two daughters, Rochelle and Taryn in 1973 and 1975. He had a successful career in the grocery industry with A & P Food Stores, where his dedication and expertise earned him a range of responsibilities, progressing from store-level positions to corporate management. In 1992, he opened Bernie’s Food Basics in Guelph, which he ran successfully for many years before retiring at the age of 58.
In retirement, Bernie and Marguerite spent many winters at their home in Florida, embracing the sunshine and creating many cherished memories with friends and family. Back home, he remained active in his community as a member of the Galt Country Club, Cambridge Seniors Choir, and the PROBUS Club of Cambridge. His family was at the heart of everything he did, and he treasured spending time with his grandchildren. He’ll be remembered for his unique sense of humour, generosity and deep love of music, which touched the hearts of all who knew him.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the staff at Cambridge Memorial Hospital’s Transitional Care Unit, for the care and compassion they showed Bernie during his time there.
In keeping with Bernie’s wishes, cremation and a private family service will be held.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bernie’s memory to the Alzheimer Society of Waterloo –Wellington.
Arrangements entrusted to T. Little Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
