Obituary of Bernadette Bates

Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn's rain. When you awaken in the morning hush, I am the sweet uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not die. *** I have lived - God knows that I have lived. I have loved - and in return have been loved. I have given - and received a hundred fold. I have suffered - and kept the pain within myself. I have searched - and with your help have found. I have accepted - and borne it with a smile. And now, for you, dear God, I come to You. *** A great wife, a great mother, a great friend. Best friend and wife of Arthur, beloved mother of Ryan (Mercedes) and Adam (Nicolle). Loving daughter of Madonna and the late Garnet Lewis, sister of the late Ronald. Registered Nurse for 35 Years at University Hospital in London. Passed on early February 8, 2014. Friends will be received at Denning Bros. Funeral Home, Strathroy on Tuesday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. where the funeral service will also be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2014 at 2 p.m. with Father Lucio Couto officiating. Cremation to follow. In memory of Bernie, donations may be made to the Strathroy Lions Club. A tree will be planted as a living memorial to Bernie.