Seated on Bernice’s bench left to right: Bernice Goldsmith’s grandson Matthew, daughter-in-law Marla Rapoport and son Philip; standing left to right: Nigel Dove, Julie Tasker-Brown, Deanne Delaney, Andy Dodge , Jo Ann Goldwater, Campbell Stuart, Jack Wolofsky, Kay Wolofsky, David Fletcher , Erica Brown, Beny Masella, unknown, Wendy Dodge, Elizabeth Ulin, Barbara Tekker; crouching left to right: Alice Assay, Louise Chenevert.
Family, friends and fellow environmentalists shared stories and warm memories in a tribute to Bernice Goldsmith, Sunday September 25, 2016. Sheltered under a canopy of trees, we dedicated a bench at Toe Blake Park to Bernice. Her son Philip, daughter-in-law Marla and grandson Matthew attended, along with her adopted family of local environmentalists. Montreal West mayor Beny Masella was on hand to share his memories and her son led us in a toast. Thank you to Wendy Dodge and Nigel Dove for organizing this lovely get-together to officially dedicate this bench to Bernice.
Bernice was a well-loved and well-respected member of Les Amis du Parc Meadwobrook who inspired us with her enthusiasm, positivity and deeply rooted dedication to protecting nature. She was ahead of her time and pioneered the social engineering program at Concordia (http://www.concordia.ca/cunews/main/stories/2014/03/28/tribute-to-bernicegoldsmith.html). She was always active in her community and is remembered for her warmth and friendship as well as her activism. We will always be grateful for her commitment to our green and natural spaces and continue to cherish and honour her memory in our work.
