Bernadette Maraj Grzelak

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bernadette Maraj, on May 25th 2026. After living through the hardships of sarcoidosis for 20 years, she bravely fought a 7 month long battle and passed away peacefully at the JGH, surrounded by her loving family. She will be dearly missed by her beloved husband, John Grzelak; her daughters Kathryn (Matt) and Amanda; her sisters, Mary (Walter), Denise (Steve), Eva (Jose), Dolores (Andre), Roseanne, Karen (Ed), Suzette (Frank); her brother Arnold; her grandchildren, Liam and Cooper; as well as her countless nieces and nephews. Bernadette was born in Couva, Trinidad and moved to Montreal, at 13 years of age. Only 2 years later, she met her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, John. Despite the young couple's relationship starting out as an illicit romance, they were unstoppable. They were married in 1980 and later created the family they both strongly desired by adopting Kathryn, and then Amanda, on two separate adventures across the world to China. A teacher her whole career, she was adored by her students as her passion for education, caring nature and playfulness were undeniable. Loving and devoted as a mother, she immersed herself in her daughter's lives by becoming the ultimate volunteer & parents committee member at every school and swim association. She made friends everywhere she went as her kindness, warmth, smile and infectious laugh were magnetic. Bernadette had an affinity for playing the piano, could spend hours chatting away on the phone, loved going out shopping with her sisters, and cherished moments spent reading to her grandchildren. She constantly showed her love through her wonderful cooking and the way that she truly dedicated her life to her family. We will always remember her strength and resilience through every obstacle she faced over the last months and are comforted knowing that she is now at peace and pain free. The family will receive condolences on Friday, June 5th from 5:00-7:00PM at the Rideau