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Bernard Austin (Bernie/Skeeter) Moonie
Celebration of Life

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 187
92 King Street East, Colborne, Ontario K0K 1S0

Sunday May 28th
1:00pm - 4:00pm

This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.

Bernard Austin (Bernie/Skeeter) Moonie

November 26, 1944 - March 27, 2023

It is with a sense of peace, yet profound love and heartbreak the family of Bernie “Skeeter” Moonie announce his passing, after a valiant fight to stay with his much loved girls and granddaughters in the early morning hours of March 27, 2023 in only his 79th year.
Bernie was born in Iroquois Falls, Ontario to parents Robert and Jean Moonie (Simon) before moving to New Liskeard where he was raised by his strong and resilient mother with his older siblings Robert (Nora), late sister Bette (late Dave), younger brother Brian (Nora), followed by Linda (Raymond), Allan (Gwen), and Barry. Dad shared many farming stories growing up alongside his Grandma and Grandpa Simon, his Uncle Murray and Aunt Lise, who all predeceased him, and his surviving Aunt Joyce who he spoke of with great fondness, along with his many cousins, nieces and nephews.
As a youngster, Skeeter quickly developed a love for sports, excelling in both track and field and hockey and proudly played hockey for the New Liskeard Cubs. Dad was extremely gratified by defeating a much larger centre of Toronto St. Michael’s College to win the All Ontario Hockey Championship Title in 1963 as an 18 year old.
After graduating from high school, Skeeter joined the Air Force where he completed his basic training at the Borden Air Force Base before being relocated to Trenton. Shortly after, Skeeter fell in love with Nadine and the two were married in 1967. The first of two daughters Michelle (Jeff) was born before Danielle (Shawn) came along, followed by their son Kevin who was waiting for his Dad to be reunited with him after 45 years.
Family was what Dad was most proud of and he took delight in watching his granddaughters Sydney and Cassidy growing up, becoming beautiful, smart, independent and strong young ladies which was how he raised his daughters, modeled by his own mother. It was always important for Dad to teach and share life experiences while making lasting memories with his granddaughters. Dad took pride in watching “The Syd” or “The Cass” play hockey and being able to share other memorable moments we will forever cherish like taking them fishing, visiting the sugar bush or picking cherries from trees in his backyard.
Skeeter also leaves behind his companion Heather, sharing nearly 25 years together. Especially since suffering his stroke four years ago, Heather has been beside Dad through his many health struggles for which we are extremely grateful for her love and support shown to our Father.
Dad worked as a partner on one of the largest family operated tobacco farms in Ontario before becoming a successful Real Estate Agent for thirty years. Skeeter was giving of his time coaching different hockey and baseball teams and put his skilled woodworking abilities to use where his trophy cases can still be found in the Keeler Centre. Dad delighted in the comradery of being with “The Boys” on various hockey, broomball, ball hockey and baseball teams, as well as participating in football pools and late night card games at his kitchen table.
A very special thank you to PSW’s Cory, Crystal and Terri Ann, who assisted Heather with Dad’s care in both his home and the hospital. The family would like to thank the extremely compassionate and caring staff at Ed’s House. It was a wonderful comfort having Donna Rusaw as part of Dad’s care team and sharing memories, knowing the special connection we have all shared for years. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Skeeter’s memory may please do so to Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre or a Minor Hockey Association close to your heart. Please join us to celebrate Dad’s life on Sunday, May 28th at the Colborne Legion from 1-4. There will be a private family graveside service where Dad will have his final resting place with Kevin.
Thank you Dad for giving our family one final gift in your last moments of leaving Bub with his own Birthday. Your love, generosity and devotion to our family will never be forgotten.

Message Of Condolence

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MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE / DONATIONS

Thursday Ladies Team - May 28, 2023 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre

Dave Wilson - May 27, 2023

Skeeter, we have so many memories together that l will cherish forever. From playing baseball with KalCor, playing cards and fantasy football. Great days rest in peace my friend.

Dave Burnham & Carol Currelly-Burnham - May 19, 2023 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

The Bridge Hospice

Diana and Jim Flesch - May 6, 2023

Michelle and Danielle We are so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

Jen & Jason Benne - May 2, 2023

Danielle, Michelle & family, our thoughts are with you all. Your Dad was so proud of all his girls. May his memory live long in all the stories, and in your hearts.

Phil Quemby - April 19, 2023

I’m so sorry for your loss.

Shelli Craig - April 11, 2023

Michelle and Danielle and families so sorry for lost. Sending much love and strength

Charlene and Robert Giguere - April 9, 2023

Danielle and Michelle and families; and Heather: our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.

Jayne Atkinson - April 5, 2023

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Bernie "Skeeter" Moonie. I knew Bernie through real estate for many years. He was also quite interested when he found out my family roots were from Colborne too- "Rutherford". We had lots to talk about then!! Rest in peace Bernie! Hugs to your girls and their families.

Donald and Sheila Webb - April 5, 2023 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre

Patsy Boettcher - April 5, 2023

Sending our condolences. So very sorry for your loss.❤️ Patsy and Sandy

Charlie & Joy Black - April 5, 2023

Sorry for your loss . He was a great guy knew him well growing up in Colborne.

DeeAnn Dennee - April 4, 2023

Michelle, Danielle and families….we are very sorry to hear of the passing of your Father. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Dee, Kevin, Ava & Sadie

Tamara (Tammy) Legato - April 4, 2023

Michelle and family; I’m so sorry to hear of your Dads passing. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. ~Tamara

Pat & Bill Westrope - April 4, 2023

Michelle, Danielle. Nadine and Heather Bill and I offer our sincere condolences to you and your families in the loss of your beloved "Skeeter". He was so proud of his girls and always kept me posted on what you were doing and the many successes each of you had. May you be comforted by the memories and know that he is at peace. God be with you all.

Tammy Turney - April 4, 2023

Our sincere condolences Danielle, Michelle and family. You are all in our thoughts Tammy and Jeff Turney

CAROL BUTTAR - April 3, 2023

Eric & I would like to express our sincere sympathy to Michelle, Danielle & families on your dad's passing. Cherish your memories! Carol

Cori Cook - April 3, 2023

My sincere condolences to Danielle, Michelle and their families. As well as to Heather. He will be fondly remembered by those that knew him. My thoughts are with you all during this very difficult time. Cori

Bruce Cook - April 3, 2023 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre

Jackie Chapman Davis - April 3, 2023

Nadine, Michelle, Danielle and family I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Skeeter. May you find comfort in the memories. My thoughts are with you.

Kathy Ugolini - April 2, 2023

I am so sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. I had many good times with Bernie, I will miss his humor and his wit. Bernie's laugh will be heard from heaven for sure. My sincerest condolences to Michelle, Danielle and your families. No more pain or suffering with he have to endure.

Brenda (Grundy) Whitehead - April 2, 2023

I am saddened to hear that Mr Moonie has passed. I know that you will all lean into each other during this time of loss and continue to remember him in all of your family shenanigans and adventures. Sending hugs….

Camilla Corkery - April 2, 2023

My deepest condolences to the family and friends..

Bonnie Rusaw - April 2, 2023

Michelle& Jeff, Danielle& Shawn, Sydney & Cassidy , Heather & Nadine-My thoughts are with all of you at this very sad time. May the memories that bring a smile help you cope with the sadness you all are feeling at this very difficult time. Take care of each other. ❤️

Ben & Doreen Burd - April 2, 2023

Michelle and Danielle, our condolences to you and the families. We did not know Bernie as much as we should but we know the love and devotion that you both had for him.

Paulie and Terry Deseure - April 2, 2023 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre

Lois Hull - April 1, 2023

I spent many years in our local real estate business with Bernie. I remember his happy disposition & smile.

Linda and Gary McMurray - April 1, 2023

Heather Nadine Michelle and Danelle and families we send our condolences to each of yous and your families .Bernie will be remembered foundly in our community for all he has done. Blessings to all of you at this time and always

Melissa Lilje ( nee Boreham) - April 1, 2023

I was very saddened to hear that Skeeter passed away!! All of the family are in my thoughts and prayers!

Connie Sturzenegger - April 1, 2023

Michelle, Danielle and family. I am sorry to hear of Skeeter's passing. My thoughts are with you all.

Mike Kripp - April 1, 2023

So sorry Ladies to hear of Skeeter's passing. Our condolences are with you.

Scott moonie - April 1, 2023

I'm so sorry to hear about my uncle skeeter, I wish I could have visisted him more. I got to spend a year with him while I was out there, we had some good laughs and a wild ride in the snow one night flying down the highway spinning out of control until we finally came to a stop and wiped the crap from our pants lol I'm gonna miss him

LeeAnn Jones - April 1, 2023

Sincere condolences to all of Bernie's family and friends. May he RIP

Sheila Webb - April 1, 2023

Donald and I send our condolences to all of Skeeters family. It is not easy to lose a parent. Just remember he will always be with you in spirit, helping in your future paths.

Bruce Cook - April 1, 2023

Our condolences to the Moonie family at this difficult time . We will remember him for his wit and smile. Rest In Peace my friend and hockey player.

Randy and Judy Jones - April 1, 2023

Danielle, Shawn, Sydney and Cassidy. So very sorry to hear that you have lost someone you love. Its never easy to say goodbye. It sounds like your Dad/Grandpa left a lot of happy memories that will forever be with you and help you as you grieve more then you can begin to imagine. Our condolences to all who loved Skeeter.

Terri Calder - April 1, 2023

So sorry to hear of Skeeter's passing hugs and love to all. Many cherished memories to hold dear. Terri and Scott

Carmen & JP Pascoli - March 31, 2023

We are so saddened by your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences. As former residents of New Liskeard and having been to little known Iroquois Falls many times (for hockey of course!), we really enjoyed this tour through Skeeter’s beautiful life.

Nancy and Don Gauthier - March 31, 2023

To the family of “Skeeter” Moonie - please accept our sincere condolences on your loss. RIP Friend.

John Watson - March 31, 2023

Condolences to Danielle Michelle and families Bernie was a great guy 🙏

Danielle Hall - March 31, 2023

Michelle, Danielle & Family, thinking of you during this tough time. I am so sorry for loss.

Richard Lackey - March 31, 2023

Danielle and Michelle and families- Kathy and I are very sad to learn of Bernie’s passing. Sincere condolences to the family. May your memories of good times hold you in your time of sorrow.

Ang Kemp - March 31, 2023

Michelle, Danielle and families Condolences to all on your loss. Ang & Doug 🤗

Eric and Tracey Sheldrick - March 31, 2023

Sending our condolences to the family!! Sincerely Eric and Tracey

Tracy and Brian Mutton - March 31, 2023

Aunt Heather, Michelle and Danielle please accept or deepest condolences. We have so many fond memories of Skeeter. Know that he is at peace now. Brian, Tracy, Gerrad and Christie

Dianne Pursey - March 31, 2023

My sincere condolences to the family at this sad time. Dianne Pursey

Gary Russell - March 31, 2023

To the family of Skeeter my condolences,just found out of his passing, fond memories of playing hockey with him,and the ODD beer 🙏

Terry Barrett - March 31, 2023

Please accept my sincere condolences. Bernie loved his Family, and I am sure he received your love and support these last trying years. He was always fun to be around and always good for a smile and laugh. He will be remembered and missed. RIP

Scott Tuttle - March 31, 2023

We would like to send our condolences to the Moonie familes, may Skeeter rest in peace.

John Wood - March 31, 2023

My condolences to Heather, Michelle (Jeff), Danielle (Shawn) and families. I remember Skeeter well from my younger days in Colborne, his smile and quick wit, may he rest in peace now.

Fran Mcilmoyle - March 31, 2023

My sincere condolences to Syd and her family. Syd has always spoken so fondly of her grandpa and I am sure there are many beautiful memories that will remain in your hearts forever. May you all find strength and comfort during these difficult times. Always thinking of you Syd, Fran

Wanda Dunk - March 31, 2023

Sorry about loss of your father Bernie . We know your dad for a long time. Bernie is good man & help people out. Wanda& Ernie Dunk & family.

Donna Rusaw - March 31, 2023

❤️ ❤️ ❤️

Maureen Temple - March 31, 2023

So sorry for your loss, Danielle, Shawn and girls. Prayers for you all especially at this difficult time.

Veronica Marriott - March 31, 2023

Dear Danielle, Michelle and families ~ please accept my condolences on the passing of your Father; I am deeply sorry for your loss. Revel and remember always, Bernie’s love for his family ❤️

Donna M Logel - March 31, 2023

My condolences to Heather, Michelle, Danielle & families. May you find comfort in your many years of memories..

Cindy Wong - March 31, 2023

Danielle, Shawn, Sydney, Cassidy, Michelle and Jeff. I am very sorry to here about Skeeter. May he rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bob, Cindy and Jaime.

Ian and Judy - March 31, 2023

Sorry for the loss of your dad. Our thoughts are with you.

Rosemary Taylor - March 31, 2023

Michelle and Danielle and family..so sorry for your loss..please accept our sincere condolences..our thoughts and prayers are with you..Rosemary and Jamie Taylor 🙏..

Neva Moore - March 30, 2023

So sorry for your loss. He was a great man.

Martina Cook - March 30, 2023

Danielle and Michelle, I’m sorry for your loss. My heartfelt condolences to you and your families.

Barb Smith - March 30, 2023

So sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. Regards to Heather and his family.

Tricia Dunk - March 30, 2023

Condolences. Aunt Heather my thoughts are with you. Skeeter was so lucky to have you in his life, and we were happy to have him as part of our family. Rest in peace Skeeter.

Mary Mouse Checkley Ainsworth - March 30, 2023

To Skeeter's family, please accept my condolences on your loss. I have many memories of him through all the sports he and I were involved with and pints at Gilligan's. He will be remembered fondly.

Janet Beaudry Simpson - March 30, 2023

I will always remember “Skeeter’s” quick wit, smiles and long talks — Skeeter did all the talking! LOL. I believe I met Skeeter at our family gas station. I remember the sad news of Kevin’s birth and death but remember fondly when my sister and I “baby sat” Michelle and Danielle often in our teenage years and had great fun playing games. My husband played broom ball for many years with Bernie both as a player and a coach. Please accept our sincere condolences.

George and Susie Boycott - March 30, 2023

Michelle, Danielle, Heather anf Families . We were very sorry to hear of Bernies passing. A fun guy in both real estate and life. He will be missed.

Norma Gough - March 30, 2023

My deepest condolences on the passing of Skeeter especially to Heather. RIP Bernie.

Judith Clapperton - March 30, 2023

Michelle, Danielle and families. So sorry to hear of of your Dad’s passing. Our thoughts are with you Judith and Brian

Joe Ferguson - March 30, 2023

So Sorry to hear the passing of your Dad.My condolences to the family at this difficult time.

Heather Anne Palmer (Lowery) - March 30, 2023

It's so hard to say goodbye to my best friend of twenty -five years.You were one of a kind.Smartest man l ever saw in math , skilled woodworker,loved gardening very athletic in hockey , Broomall, baseball.Did a lot for sports in Colborne ,especially young kids in baseball and hockey. Best father ever raised two beautiful and talented daughters and his daughter Danielle is raising two smart and athletic daughters.l would also like to thank Honor Cattrell our VON angel.You will missed by the Palmer, Allen, Fisher Family.

Elaine Churchill - March 30, 2023

Dear families of Skeeter! It is with our deepest sympathy that we heard of Skeeters passing! He was a very proud father and so proud of his granddaughters! He loved playing hockey and baseball! He will be missed by all that knew him! May he be at peace! Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time!! Charles, Elaine and family!

Kim Turpin - March 30, 2023

Danielle, Michelle and family. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. He was always such a great man to chat with while at the ball diamonds in Grafton, and an overall good man. May you cherish all of the fond memories of him to get through your days. Kim Turpin

Neil Smith - March 30, 2023

So sorry to hear of the family’s loss in the passing of Skeeter. We played a lot of hockey together in our early years and he will be missed. My thoughts will be with the family at this time.

Sandra Lowery Dunk - March 30, 2023

To my sister Heather for all you did for skeeter during his sickness over the years rest in peace skeeter you're not suffering any more

Norma Johnston - March 30, 2023

Condolences to the family on the passing of Skeeter

Jim Baitley - March 30, 2023

I’m so sorry to hear of “SKEETERS” passing. Growing up in Colborne myself we had many memorable Sunday evenings at the “5 C’s “. Colborne Cramahe Centennial Community Centre. We refereed the broom ball games . We had our hands full pal, RIP

RUTH LANGMUIR - March 30, 2023

So sorry to hear of your loss, he truly was an amazing man. Full of life and jokes each and every time I seen him. He will be deeply missed. Ruth & Luke

Patricia Bath - March 30, 2023

So very sorry to learn of Bernies passing. Worked with him in the real estate industry for many years. A nice man. SIncere condolences to his family.

Charles and Manon Samis - March 30, 2023

We are so sorry for the loss of a dear father. Michelle, you spoke so fond of your father. Thank you to whom, for the beautiful obituary that was written in his honor. Our hearts are with you through this difficult journey. Nadine our hearts are also with you and all the family. RIP.

Valerie Smith - March 30, 2023

Knew Bernie through real estate as I was an agent as well. My sincere condolences to the family

Kristine Dingman - March 30, 2023

I am so very sad for the Moonie family. I hope peacefulness and comfort find you. Special hugs to Michelle. Knowing you, makes me believe that your dad was a good soul. Take care of each other.

Paul Herriot - March 30, 2023

My sincere condolences to Skeeter's family. I have many fond memories of our hockey days.

Carol Osborne - March 30, 2023

Wib and I offer our deepest condolences to your families.

Cindy Reeves and Stan Sokay - March 30, 2023

Danielle, Shawn, Sydney , Cassidy and Michelle, Our heartfelt condolences. We have many fond memories of conversations with Skeeter when he was next door building something or bragging about the girls. His easy laugh and passion for his family will be missed. Know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time. Love you guys.

Tom & Judy McLean - March 30, 2023 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre

Roxane Brunette - March 30, 2023

To All of Skeeters family. I am so sorry for your loss. Take comfort in knowing that he left his legacy to you all to continue to fulfill.

Tom & Judy McLean - March 30, 2023

Danielle,Shawn,Sydney,Cassidy & family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Hopefully there is some comfort in all the great memories.

Tracey Osborne-Lebel - March 30, 2023

My deepest condolences. He was a lovely man with an infectious smile/laugh. He will be sadly missed by many.

Maureen Mullally - March 30, 2023

My condolences to all Bernie’s family .I worked with Bernie many years ago in the Realestate business .. he was a fun likeable man ..

Melanie and Larry Sine - March 30, 2023

Michelle, Danielle and families. Very sorry to hear about Skeeter. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Jen and Rick Nelson - March 30, 2023

Michelle and Danielle - so sorry to hear of your loss! The memories will make things easier. Our thoughts are with during this time.