Passed suddenly away at his home in St Johns on December 2, 2025, Bernard Dougald Newhook (Big Bird) formerly of Norman’s Cove at the age of 73.
Predeceased by his son, Christopher (2003), mother and father, Elizabeth (Bessie) and Hayward Newhook, brother Perry Sr (Mum) and sister-in-law, Cindy Newhook (Mercer).
Leaving to mourn his loving wife, Denise of 43 years and son Matthew. Siblings: Charlotte (Merrill), Norma (Barry), Kay (Rick) and their families, Father and Mother -in-law Adrian & Bernadette Power as well as sister-in-laws, Marcie (Rick), Paula (Martin), Darlene (Jamie), brother-in-laws, Barry (Deanne), Dale (Sarina) and their families.
Bern was a bricklayer by trade with the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Crafterworkers, BAC, Local 1.
Through his career he developed many friendships far and near. He dedicated his life to building, not just with his hands but with his heart. As a bricklayer he took great pride in his work. Leaving behind walls that still stand today after many years of enduring testament to his skill and dedication.
Many thanks to Dr Vidysankar, Dr Jackman and the Palliative Care Team, for their kindness, support and home visits throughout his illness. Thank you to Barrett’s and Holloway’s Funeral Homes for their kindness and compassion. Thank you everyone for all the phone calls, messages and visits to our house. It was greatly appreciated.
Cremation has taken place as per Berns request.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025 at 1:00 – 3:00 pm at Chapel Arm Community Center (formerly, St John Baptist Hall, 362 Main Rd for family and friends.
Committal to follow at a later date
Denise, Bruce and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. May memories of happy times ease your sorrow and bring comfort at this difficult time. Thinking of you and your family.
Thinking of you all. Bern was such a great person that made everyone smile. So sorry for your loss. L
So very sorry to hear of Bernard passing. Thinking of the newhook family ❤️
Denise and family, I am so truly sorry to hear of Berns sudden passing. I know words are not enough to express to you the sadness I feel for you and your family. Bern was such a sweet gentle man who adored you andv his family so much. I pray for peace for you and your family at this time. Thoughts and prayers to all he has touched in his life.
So sorry to hear of Bernie’s passing. Another workmate gone from the Brotherhood of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers.
So sorry for your loss Denise. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time.
Hi my friend, Denise,I am so sorry about the pain you must be going through. My heart is broken to know that Bern had passed away. Eric and I were so happy to see you in October but sad we didn’t get to see Bern but you told us than that he wasn’t doing so good. We will keep you in our prayers and when you are ready please call me. I love you my friend.
So deeply sorry to all of Berns family🙏 I pray the Lord will comfort you . God Bless
So sorry to hear about Bern’s passing. He was a great friend and we had quite a few laughs together over the years along with a few tears. I know Dave will miss his calls. Sending love and prayers. 🙏🙏🙏
Denise, I am so sorry to hear of your precious husband’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I was very saddened to hear of berns passing he was very well liked by all who knew him bern was a master craftsman at his trade who worked long days and nights and took on each new project as a challenge but never took short cuts always delivering quality outcomes for his customers i believe he truly loved the work he did i was lucky and shared some of those times with him and he well certainly be missed by many and especially his well know sense of humour and big laugh RIP
So sorry to hear the sad news! I grew up
With Bern many years ago and spent alot of time at his moms n got to know all the family quite well! His mom was very patient with us all n there was always a group of us there. He was a charmer to say the least n he was loved n respected by many. Deepest condolences to Denise n family n of course Berns sibling’s n family! Love you my friend RIP
Denise, my condolences. So sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Maureen Au
Denise and Matthew, Sorry to hear of Bern’s passing, sending my sincere condolences to you both❤️
Our deepest condolences Bernie will be missed Rest in Peace
Denise and Matthew,
I was so sorry to hear about Bern’s passing. I met him many years ago at his Aunt Emily’s here in St. John’s. A good guy for sure. Over the years Bern did work for me and my Dad. He did a foundation wall on my house that was perfect: straight and plum. My Dad had Bern do the brickwork on the front of his business on Livingstone St over 25 years ago that is still as straight and plum as Bern did it. A testament to his skill and workmanship. May he rest in peace.
Roger and Lisa Tulk,
Tulk’s Glass & Key Shop.