Songhees Nation mourning death of mother of 5, 'fierce' youth advocate

The Songhees Nation is grieving the death of 48-year-old Bernice Sam, a devoted mother of five and cherished member of the community. A spokesperson for the nation confirmed Sam is the pedestrian who died after she was struck by a vehicle near the border of View Royal and Songhees Nation. The collision occurred Aug. 14, on Admirals Road near Maple Bank Road. West Shore RCMP has said the cause of the collision remains under investigation. Sam has been described as a “dedicated and vibrant presence” within the Nation, assuming many roles including family member, friend and valued staff member, working multiple roles for the Songhees Education Department. “Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of our youth touched the lives of many far beyond our community,” said a statement from the Songhees Nation leadership team. Her colleagues at the Songhees Education Department, where she worked for three years, have said the impact of Sam’s work will be felt for generations.  “Bernice's warm, caring and compassionate nature brought comfort and nurturing to the students on the daily school bus run, and after school in the KKE program,” they said in a statement. “Her passion for supporting Songhees children and youth in their education was one of the many strengths that she contributed to our team.   “She was a fierce advocate for the health and well-being of all Songhees students and their families. She cared with all her heart, and that light and fire shone through every day in her work.” An online fundraiser with a target of $9,000 has been launched in Sam's memory. As of Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 19), over $8,400 had been raised, which will be used to help Sam's five children "navigate this challenging period," said the Nation. "Unfortunately, mom has passed; leaving the kiddos to move forward in a life without the one person who loved them the most. Anything helps," says a statement on the GoFundMe page. To make a donation, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/4uyt6q-the-sam-family [http://www.gofundme.com/f/4uyt6q-the-sam-family].