Mom, our family’s bright light peacefully dimmed at 04:00 EST on Tuesday May 13 at Carpenter Hospice in Burlington ON, at the age of 82 and with family at her side.

Mom was born in Toronto ON and spent her childhood and adolescent years in both Toronto and Galt ON.

Mom is predeceased and now reunited with “the love of my life” her husband of 50 years, David McCusker. She is also predeceased by her parents Mathias and Anna Bergmann, brother Jack Bergmann and sister-in-law Dorothy, and brother-in-law David Yarush.

Mom is survived and deeply missed by her sister Mary Yarush (nee Bergmann), daughters Kelly Helm (Philip) and Julia Carr (son-in-law Lynden), and grandchildren Tyler Helm, Rachel Helm (Tanner), Mason Carr, Jada Carr, and Justin Carr.

Mom was an exemplary woman, wife, mother, and grandmother. Her pride and joy were her family, especially her grandchildren. She faced hardships and life-threatening occurrences with grace and steadfastness. She loved to dance and was vibrant, cheerful, caring, and loving. She was very friendly and spread joy to all who crossed her path. Her endearing nickname ‘Gabby’ forged many relationships wherever she lived, worked, walked and traveled. Her gift to gab made her the connector in both our paternal and maternal families, and its benefits we still garner.

Mom managed her family’s restaurant in Galt at Highways 8 & 97 for years, starting at the age of 16. After Mom and Dad married and had Kelly in Windsor, they settled back in Galt and had Julia. Here our family enjoyed tending fruit trees, vegetable and flower gardens, spending time with neighbours, and vacationing in both Canada and USA visiting family. The next move was to Burlington where Mom provided loving home daycare for 25+ of the 30 years, and when Dad retired, Scribbles & Swirls was born and they both spent many years showcasing Dad’s exceptional wood-turning talent and skills in numerous craft shows near and far. Mom and Dad’s next move was to Waterford where they spent the remainder of their time together, and Mom inspired others to join her in gardening, walking, kayaking, and fitness classes. Mom also enjoyed playing board games, cooking and sharing her delicious recipes, talking about places traveled and people encountered. Her energy amazed all!

Mom was loved dearly and will continue to live on as our family shares memories and lives her legacy to always shower each other with unwavering love and support. Fly high as one of God’s guardian angels Mom, keeping watch over us all. And please keep a light on, for one day we will all rejoin you and Dad.

No service will be held. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will occur at a later date.
Condolences can be made directly to the family.