Bernstein, Rolf May 19, 1920 – February 26, 2016 • Rolf Bernstein passed away peacefully in Fir Park Village, Port Alberni, BC in the early morning of February 26, 2016 and is now forever at home with the Savior he faithfully served for nearly 96 years. Rolf was predeceased by grandsons Everett, Alex and Manfred Bernstein, as well as his sister, Ingrid and brother Hanno, both of Germany. Rolf is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Lucia, his sons Ralph (Liz), Manfred (Sharon) of Port Alberni, and daughter Marina Bernstein of Vancouver. Rolf loved his grandchildren Brandon (Kyla), Warren (Diane), Kristopher (Shaylah) Bernstein and two great-grandchildren Makenna and Beckett Bernstein. Born in Dresden Germany, Rolf immigrated to Canada in 1954, with his wife and children following in 1955. They settled in Port Alberni where Rolf began his 29 year career with MacMillan Bloedel at the APD, Plywoods and later at the Alpulp Pulp Mill from where he would later retire. In his younger years, Rolf loved hiking and mountain climbing with his sons and friends on many of the local mountain peaks. During those years, Rolf also took great enjoyment being a scout leader in the Alberni Valley scouting movement, having taken many local youths on hikes, to camps and jamborees.
Rolf’s real passion came very close to his retirement. Stained glass work started as a hobby for him and soon became his passion and vocation. His beautiful stained glass creations have found their way to Europe, across Canada, the United States and can be seen in Port Alberni, in homes, businesses and notably the beautiful windows at The Grace Lutheran Church and the glorious window in Our Savior Lutheran Church in Parksville.
The family of Rolf would like to extend their sincere thanks and gratitude to the nurses and staff of Fir Park Village, for taking the greatest care of Rolf during his last two years. Funeral services will be held on March 12, 2016 at 1:00 pm at the Grace Lutheran Church (4408 Redford Street, Port Alberni, BC), with a tea to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Rolf’s name to The Fir Park Village / Echo Village Foundation or to the Grace Lutheran Church, Port Alberni.