Laura Ina Bergenham (Penny) peacefully passed on May 5, 2023, at the age of 83.
Laura was born in Eriksdale, Manitoba, on July 1, 1939, to Marjory O’Brien (Penny) and George Penny. She was predeceased by her husband Colin Bergenham, her brother Bert Penny and her sister Pearl Sboto. She is survived by her daughter Carolyn Tanner, her loving sisters Shirley Rosentreter and Linda Penny and her sister-in-law Marilyn Penny. She had nine nephews and nieces who will miss her sarcasm and generosity.
Laura attended Huntington School and graduated from Souris High School. She then went on to teach grades one through eight in a one-room schoolhouse where all eight grades were taught by one teacher. She continued her education and received a teaching certificate in Winnipeg from the Manitoba Teachers College.
In Ontario she worked for Bell, where she met her future husband Cliff Graham. In 1968 they came to Powell River to join her brother Bert and his feisty wife Marilyn.
Many of us have enjoyed her famous fish and chips from her stand at the ferry terminal. She sold “Laura’s Fish and Chips” in 1995 after she married Colin Bergenham. They travelled, camped and had a happy retirement until his passing in 2014.
Laura was an active member of the community. She participated in Women of the Moose, the museum and Red Hats. She was a sharpshooter, great dart player and always enjoyed a good game of cards.
Laura enjoyed life and we cannot picture her without her dog Max at her side, smoking a cigarette, enjoying a rum and coke.
A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 5 pm on Friday, July 7, at Laura and Colin’s house at 4628 Harwood Avenue. Please bring your favourite Laura story. A light lunch and beverages will be served.
