Bernice V. Moerkerke

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Bernice V. Moerkerke, 80, of Bridger, went peacefully to the Lord on October 16 at St. Vincent's Hospital in the presence of her family.

She was born in Myers to Walter and Kathryn (Bauer) Schmidt on January 31, 1928. She grew up with five siblings and graduated from Hysham High School in 1946.

Bernice married Morris Moerkerke on January 29, 1949 in Hysham. They lived in Hamilton for ten years, where they owned and operated the Cozy Café. After moving to Hysham in 1959, Bernice proceeded Morris as the County Assessor for eight years. Together, they raised six wonderful children. Then in 1979, Bernice and Morris moved to Bridger where they continued to enjoy their life and love.

Bernice was a loving and caring wife, mother and grandmother with a good-hearted spirit and a lively sense of humor.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 60 years, Morris; her children, Cheryl (Larry) Yerger of Bridger; Bob (Joy) Moerkerke of Rhinelander, WI; Judy (Dave) Zent of Bridger; Joe (Stephanie) Moerkerke of Conrad; Jan Moerkerke of Billings; Tricia (Patrick) Hansen of Laurel; 12 grandchildren, Gimeelyn (Jason) McHann of Belgrade; Cody Yerger of Billings; Trevor (Samantha) Moerkerke of Portland, OR; Brooke Moerkerke of Rhinelander, WI; Brett Zent of Billings; Kylee Zent of Billings; Josiah, Ben, Seth and Abigail Moerkerke all of Conrad; Joshua Krogh of Denver, CO; Mya Hansen of Laurel; one great-grandchild, Mikayla Munter of Belgrade; two sisters, Delores (Mel) Mead of Worland, WY; Dorothy Paige of Billings and numerous relatives.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one brother and two sisters.

Visitation for family and friends will be 4-6pm Sunday at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Vigil will be held on Monday, October 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Parish in Bridger. Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday, October 21 at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Parish in Bridger with Rite of Committal at the Hysham Cemetery at 3:30 p.m. Following the interment the family will greet friends at a reception at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Hysham.

What greater thing is there for families than to feel they are joined for life-to be with each other in silent, unspeakable memories. When you look up to the twinkling stars; smile, and know that Bernice is smiling back at you. She would want you to take one day at a time and make it a masterpiece.

Thanks for being a wonderful wife, mom, grandma and great-grandma. We will miss you. ‘Til we see you again, keep smiling and know that you are close in our hearts.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Judy, David, Kylee, Brett We are so sorry for you’re loss You are in our thoughts. Vickie & Zac Zent, Shane & Waytt Hopkins Bob, Judy, Joe, Jan and Tricia. My deepest sympathy for the loss of your mom, she was such a great lady, and such a supporter of all her kids, grandkids they were definitely the lights of her life, and to you Morris, again my deepest sympathy. Lori (Scheuermann) Catalano

To My Dearest Friend Cheryl and her family, How sad I was to see you lost your beloved mother. I remember her so vibrant and friendly, always so involved and accepting. She always had a warm and cheerful smile no matter how many years had past from one meeting to the next. She would always remember me. Cheryl, please give you dad a hug for me. My love to you, my dear friend and your family, Judy Coles

Dear Morris and your wonderful family: We, and our family, are so saddened by your loss. Bernice was so much fun and had that great sense of humor. All of our best to all of you; our sincere sympathy, and you are in our thoughts and prayers. Gloria & Bob Thiel

Morris and family, We are sending our thoughts and prayers to all of you. May God give you peace and comfort during this time of loss. Rick & Karen Mouat

Morris and Family, God has another wonderful angel–Bernice was such a wonderful person—and such a comfort and help to me when I first cme to Hysham. May your happy memories help ease your pain at this time. Bob and Cathy Emmons

miss you grandma!!

Happy Birthday Mom…

Mom we have a beautiful baby boy named Cy. But you already know that. Love you.

Momma-when I take a few moments to myself-I can see you smile while telling a joke, or laughter or sparkling eyes. Mya has your sparkle and Cy has your look like I'm gonna do it anyway. Mostly, just really been on my mind in things you've taught me. I miss you. Love, Judy

Mom-Missing you lots, but knowing you are with us always is a blessing. We had a nice Thanksgiving with family...your presence was felt. Love you lots, Tricia