Obituary of Bernard Bach Sorensen

Bernard (Bernie) Sorensen, 94, of Swift Current, passed away peacefully on October 23rd, 2024.

Bernie was born on March 26th, 1930, to John and Katherine Sorensen. He grew up in the Cabri/Battrum area. In February 1957 he was married to Lucille Lee. They lived in Swift Current and started their family in 1958 with Karen, followed by Donald in 1960.

Bernie started work with the Pioneer Co-op petroleum department in 1953, moving to the Canadian Helium Plant in 1963. It was in 1977 when he discovered his true passion selling farm machinery with Jay Dee Equipment, where he worked until his retirement. Until the day he died he wanted to discuss what was happening with farming, grain prices, and was continuously surprised to learn about advancements in farm equipment technology from his grandson.

Playing cribbage was a favorite of his hobbies, whether organizing games at the Seniors Centre or library, participating at the Eagles, or coming up with new ideas for crib boards he could build. He found joy in teaching the grandkids and great grandkids how to play. He even played crib poolside with the kids in Hawaii in 2017- when he insisted the entire family go together to Oahu, to enjoy a holiday. Hawaii was a favorite place of he and Lucille’s to visit over the years, as well as spending some winters in Arizona, taking annual camping trips to Cypress Hills and heading out to Vancouver Island to visit Don and his family whenever possible.

Bernie always liked to keep busy around the home and in the garage. He enjoyed making lefse, collecting various items including John Deere model toys, listening for unique finds on the trading post, or helping with repairs and maintenance when he and Lucille lived in the 4plex or condo. Most will remember him for having a smile on his face, a hand to lend or a joke to tell. He was kind and generous. Bernie was always willing to treat the family to a meal out of Chinese food and in most recent years there was a standing invite for wing Wednesday for any family that was available to join him.

Remaining to cherish Bernie’s memory are his daughter Karen Thomson, grandson Jason (Kaitlin) Thomson, great grandchildren Jack and Stella, Granddaughter Janelle Thomson (Kenton Anderson); Son Don (Vicki) Sorensen, grandson Jay Peters, great grandchildren Leo and Grayson, grandson Steve (Dana) Peters, great grandchildren Logan and Ellie.

Bernie is predeceased by his wife Lucille, his parents John and Katherine, his in-laws Clarence and Matilda Lee and his son-in-law Dean Thomson.

A private family internment service will take place at Mount Pleasant Burial Park in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Donations in Bernie’s memory can be made to the Fraternal Order of Eagles – Swift Current (1910 South Service Rd W, Swift Current, SK S9H 5J4)