Berniece Sue Gunn was granted her angel wings on March 28, 2016. Her final days were spent at her daughter’s home, in St. Helens, surrounded by her loving family.

Berniece (or Niecy, as she was known by friends and family) was born to Noble and Maude VanDolah; on June 7, 1925 in Houlton (now known as St. Helens), Oregon. Berniece was the sixth child born, into a family, of eighteen children.

After graduating from St. Helens High School, Berniece married Wesley A. Cameron, in 1942. From that union came her loving son Wesley ‘Monty’ Cameron. In 1947, Berniece married Francis Gunn. They were together, until his death in 1961. From that union came eight more beloved children.

Francis’s military career moved the Gunn family several times over the years, including a five year deployment to Kyoto Honshu, Japan; and then onto Fort Riley, Kansas; before the family settled back in St. Helens, Oregon.

Berniece raised her children in the St. Fredric’s Catholic Church, and later in life, became a member of the Church of Christ. Berniece was also a member of the St. Helens Eagles and was employed at the St. Helens Hospital.

Berniece enjoyed spending time quilting, listening to music, and sharing a pot of coffee with her friends and family. All who knew her know, that family was Berniece’s true passion and joy. She was a devoted and loving mother, serving tirelessly as her family’s ‘guiding light’. Her family brought her great pride. She loved to be able to care for them in any way she could. Her time, dedication and love will be forever missed by all those that knew and loved her.

Berniece is survived by her children; Monty Cameron, Frances Anderson, Johnny Gunn, Fritz Gunn, Jeannie Gunn, Mary Gunn, Teresa Coy, and Ed Gunn. Also her siblings; Harry VanDolah, George VanDolah, Clifford ‘Bud’ VanDolah, Charlotte Comfort, Pearl VanDolah, Alta Fairchild, and Clarice Sweet. She also leaves behind 27 beloved grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Berniece is preceded in death by her husband, Francis Gunn, and her daughter Darline George. She leaves all her children, grandchildren, and family with the knowledge that they were truly loved as she always told them, “love you more”.

There will be a Viewing on Monday, April 4, 2016 from 11:00-1:00 pm at the Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens, with a Graveside Service to follow at Columbia Memorial Gardens in Scappoose at 2:00 pm.


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