Bernadine L. Randall (Bernie) passed away peacefully of natural causes on June 10, 2012 at her residence within Aspen Gardens in Helena.
She was born in Fort Benton on October 24, 1921. Her parents were George Uptmor and Aurora (Labarre) Uptmor. Bernie, her parents, brother Merlin and sister Georgiana (Georgie) lived with extended Labarre family (grandparents, aunts, uncles), all sharing a home in Fort Benton and making ends meet during the Great Depression.
She graduated from Fort Benton high school as valedictorian and went on to attend a year of college at Northern in Havre. Soon after, she moved to Helena and worked within the lab of the State Health Department. It was in Helena that she met her future husband, Ralph W. Randall (a member of the First Special Service Force). At the conclusion of WWII, they were married in Fort Benton on November 22, 1945. From that time forward they lived in Helena except for a brief one year stop on the Oregon Coast, in the late forties. The passing of her mother Aurora proved to be the catalyst to bring Bernie and Ralph back to Montana permanently. Ralph found his employment in Helena.
A few years after returning to Helena, Bernie began working full time for AT & T (the phone company) while also raising her children. Bernie and Ralph had four children (Daniel, Richard, Michael and Steven). Her love for her family was her deepest passion. Also, her faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church served as another cornerstone for her journey throughout life. She was a member of St. Helena Cathedral parish. In addition, Bernie loved sports, with Notre Dame Football topping the list as her favorite.
For most of her working career Bernie was an administrative assistant for various managers. She eventually received a full retirement from the phone company (which had become US West by that time).
Bernie was a woman of many strengths: she simply never complained about anything. Also, people confided in her. She did not speak ill of anyone. She didn’t gossip. She never voiced a bad word about anyone but could always find something positive within everyone. People often commented about her sweet disposition.
Her husband Ralph passed away in 1998. After a few years, Bernie’s sister Georgie (whose husband Roland Morgan had passed on many years earlier) moved in with her at her home on the west side of Helena. They always enjoyed each other’s company along with the many visits from their children and grandchildren, along with other extended family and friends.
Bernie was preceded in death by her husband Ralph, their son Daniel and her brother Merlin Uptmor.
She is survived by three sons, all of Helena. They are Richard and his wife, Mary Ellen; Michael and his wife, Kim (Brian, his wife Laura and daughter Adeline; Scott, his wife Arian and son Jack); Steven and his wife, Mary Pat (Kayla, Marcellus and Kiara); Step grandchildren, Christopher, his wife, Sarah, and children Quinn and Liam; Jeremy, his wife, Brandi, and children Evan, Erika and Ellie; Matthew, his wife, Darci, and son, Harris; Mary Nicole, her husband, Rob, and daughter, Sofia. Additional survivors include her beloved sister, Georgiana (Uptmor) Morgan, of Helena, and many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.
Family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at Retz Funeral Home from 5:30 – 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon, Thursday, June 14, 2012 at the Cathedral of St. Helena with a reception to follow the service in the Brondel Center of the lower level of the church. Burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery following the social gathering. To offer a condolence or share a memory of Bernie, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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Diane Eby says
Steve and family. I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Douglas & Rachel Bawden says
We are sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carolyn K. Pelletier says
To the Randall Family: My very deepest sympathy. I was sorry to read of the passing of Bernadine. I remember her and Randy very fondly. I cherish my many memories of “cussing corner” at Laurel & Flowerree. I also remember her attending the past few FSSF reunions. I know your many memories will help you through this difficult time.
prudence cooper says
Dear Family, Want you to know my thoughts are with you. What a wonderful lady she was! I know she will be dearly missed.
My Jerry will join her in heaven.
Sincerely, Prudence and Family