Bernice Ketterhagen, 93, of Burlington, passed away peacefully Saturday, Sept. 4,
2021, at Oak Park Place in Burlington. Her passing was gentle, thanks to the wonderful team at Oak Park Place, Kindred Hospice, and her loving friends and family.
Bernice was born in Burlington, on Nov. 22, 1927 to John and Theresa (Merten) Koldeway. Her early life was spent on the Koldeway family farm in Burlington with her 11 brothers and sisters. On Oct. 14, 1950, at St. Alphonsus Church in New Munster, she was married to James E. Ketterhagen. Following marriage, they made their home and raised their daughter in Burlington. James preceded her in death on Dec. 18, 1998.
Bernice worked at Lavelle Industries for over 30 years. She was a strong, content, and dedicated worker, and a friendly colleague. But those who were fortunate enough to know her well, knew her as a baker. It’s estimated she baked over 5,000 pies, notably apple, rhubarb, and banana cream. Every time perfection. Every time she thought it could be a little bit better. As was her humble nature, she’d never boast of her work ethic, pie skills, or her time spent as a “holy duster” at St. Mary’s or serving meals at Love, Inc. She simply gave her all and went about her business.
Bernice loved spending time outdoors gardening, golfing, picking berries, harvesting hickory nuts, and walking in the woods. She always had a beautiful flower and vegetable garden that fed many people. She had a gift for designing beautiful floral arrangements, and was an excellent cook, homemaker, and fermenter of pickled beets. Just ask any of her 81 nieces and nephews. It brought her a lot of joy to share what she made with her friends and family. One of her favorite things to do was play a good game of dominoes!
Bernice had an endless amount of energy, and was a strong, independent lady who was well loved by her large extended family, and will be missed.
Bernice is survived by her daughter, Terry (Michael) Stafford; two granddaughters,
Lindsey (Evan) and Erin (Sean); great-granddaughter, Emerson; and her sisters-in-law, Lou Jane and Virginia Koldeway. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and husband, James.
No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. The family will notify loved ones in the future when a service is scheduled.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home is serving the family. Well-wishers may visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
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