Bernadette Marie Lassaline, 65, died of Leiomyosarcoma on September 19, 2022 at her home in Carson City, NV surrounded by her family and lots of love.
Bernadette was born in Reno, Nevada, on January 27, 1957. She is survived by her husband, Bill Lassaline; their three children, Peter Lassaline (Pierette Kulpa) of Mertztown, PA, Annie Shaw (Greg) of Simi Valley, CA, and Michelle Lassaline (Nate Clark) of Vashon, WA; their grandchildren, Gracie and Walker Shaw; her siblings, Chris Walker (Linda), John Walker (Stephanie Pavlik), Lorie Johnson (Mark), Cathy McCune (Chris), and Marianne Munsterman (Dale); and her many nieces and nephews and their children. She was predeceased by her parents, Bernie and Dolores Walker, and her sister-in-law Connie Lujano Walker.
Bernadette liked a good long conversation over coffee at her kitchen table. She would tell a story, offer some wisdom, or simply listen to the many guests of the Lassaline household. A generation of kindergarteners learned from Bernadette’s creativity and kindness over the 15 years she worked as a teacher’s aide at Seeliger Elementary School. In the years since, her friendship with the Seeliger teachers remained a constant joy.
Bernadette’s adventurous spirit, kindness, and humor has been an inspiration to many. A loving and extraordinary wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, she baked countless birthday pies and wedding cakes. She could be found grilling on her barbecue rain or shine. She loved hiking, cycling, boating, catching fish, camping with her family, and sewing holiday aprons for all. She even learned to ride a motorcycle at age 55.
Always up for an adventure, Bernadette explored the Sierra Nevada with friends, family, and her dog Zoe. From hiking Mt. Rose, Mt. Tallac and Mt. Whitney (twice!), she was known by her sisters as the “energizer bunny” and by her children as the “hiking biking beauty.” In February 2022, Bernadette and Bill trekked through Death Valley up to Wild Rose Peak. When Bill suggested turning back, Bern responded, “Damn it, if this is the last mountain I hike, I’m going to the top.” And she did.
We’ll miss you, Mom.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Leiomyosarcoma Foundation, nlmsf.org/donate.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Teresa of Avila in Carson City, NV on Saturday, October 15th, 2022 at noon.