Obituary of Bernadette Kupchella-Remic

KUPCHELLA-REMIC – Bernadette “Bernie”, 73, of Nanty Glo was carried on the wings of Angels to her home in heaven on March 16, 2024, after a decade of dealing with Parkinson’s Disease. Bernie was born February 5, 1951 in Sankertown.  Bernie’s parents were the late John and Dora (Shaffer) Kupchella. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard (Rick) Remic, her mother-in-law Madge Remic, niece and nephew Claire and Bryce Kupchella, great nephew Bodhi Gourley, and her special pets Scotty, Sandy, Girly Girl, and Squeakers. She is survived by her siblings Rosemary (Richard) Mercik of Mineral Point, John (Patricia Szekeresh) Kupchella of Strongstown and Daniel (Angela Hegedus) Kupchella of Vintondale; nieces and nephews Mitchell (Sarah Figalora) Mercik, Alena (Matt) Gourley, Josh (Mallory Ruby) Kupchella, Devon Ruby, Christopher (Nichole Eicher) Kupchella, and Jordan Kupchella; great nieces and nephews Issadora, Jacob, and Ian Gourley, Cassidy, Jonas, and Marlee Kupchella, and Thea and Lillian Ruby; also her special and beloved kitty, Jazzy.

Bernie was a generous and loving person that touched the lives of those she met, always giving the best advice. She served as a nurse in the recovery room at Conemaugh Hospital for over 30 years. She cared for many others in their times of need. She had a strong faith that carried her through life. She was devoted to her family, her friends, animal friends, and would lend a helping hand to anyone. She especially loved her nieces and nephews and would attend every event that she could.

Her passions were varied and brought a lot of excitement to her life and those who had the pleasure of joining her. She took many trips to go scuba diving, biking, and had adventures all over the world. The Outer Banks held a special place in her heart and soul. She loved the ocean, the sand, the dolphins and everything about the beach. She always said, “There is no such thing as a bad day at the beach!” She and her husband Rick loved it so much that they had beach houses, which provided happy and fun memories for many.

Bernie went above and beyond with her creative flair. She enjoyed learning different crafts like weaving and pottery.  She made beautiful Christmas arrangements and baskets. One of her greatest joys was preparing Easter eggs for her nieces and nephews, and now great nieces and nephews to find on Easter. She loved to see them searching for their eggs and was filled with joy watching them find the hidden treasures she placed inside.

Bernie enjoyed her monthly outings with her nurse friends, volunteering at Saint Vincent DePaul, and her many trips to Pittsburgh with her “partner in crime” Chrissy.

Bernie was such a beautiful and kind soul; knowing just what you needed to hear at just the right moment. She will be greatly missed by many.

Bernadette’s family would like to recognize and thank The Canterbury Place in Pittsburgh where she received excellent care and comfort over the last days of her life.

A gathering of family and friends are welcomed in celebrating Bernie’s life from 5-7 p.m. on Friday at the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Nanty Glo. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Nanty Glo, the Rev. Leonard Voytek, celebrant.  

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Bernie’s memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation (for Parkinson’s Research), Cambria County Humane Society, or Bedford County Humane Society. Condolences may be left for the family at www.askew-houser.com