Bernice Sarah Packer, age 73, of Paw Paw, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2017. She went to be with the lord, while surrounded by her loving husband, Duane Packer, her children and grandchildren.
Bernice grew up in South Haven and attended Parsons Business College. She was truly beautiful inside and out. She was kind, genuine, always positive, and greeted everyone with a smile. Bernice’s smile was what first attracted Duane to her. After getting married in the Virgin Islands in 1969, they went on to create a happy life together, full of family, fun, laughter, and many adventures. Whether it was traveling in their airplanes, motor home or Model A, they always had fun together. Bernice/Bernie/Aunt Bea was devoted to her family and dedicated her life to being a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She managed to do it all, creating a happy childhood for her children, making a family dinner almost every night, and helping Duane run his many businesses. Bernice served as Porter Township Clerk for 10 years and was involved in St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Lawton.
Although sweet and gentle, she was incredibly strong and never complained. She became known as an inspiration to many. She beat the odds, battling Ovarian Cancer for 14 years. In a biography she wrote, “I am a firm believer in positive thinking and believe God is watching over me.” She said she lived by the motto, “Never give up and never give in.” During her cancer journey, she advocated for Ovarian Cancer awareness and helped others with their cancer diagnosis.
To get a glimpse into her sweet soul, she loved butterflies and collected angel figurines. Surviving are her husband, Duane Packer; children, Rev. Ronald (Laura) Packer, Christine Gosdzinski, Hilary (James) McGowan, Valary (Carter) Gent; grandchildren, Veronica Barker, Victoria Barker, Shelby Hessler, Daniel Packer, Nicholas Gosdzinski, Nathan Gosdzinski, Kelcie McGowan, Maycie McGowan, Austin Gent; sisters, Beverly (Stanley) Snow, Janice (Thomas) Handley. Bernice was preceded in death by her parents William and Alice Kuhn and brother, Arthur Kuhn.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, January 7, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw, where funeral services will commence at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Ron Packer officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Lawton.