Berneta D. Kelsch's Obituary
Big Rapids- Berneta D. "Bernie" Kelsch, 86, of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, November 5, 2017, at her residence. She was born September 1, 1931, in Long Lake Township, Grand Traverse County, the daughter of Leslie and Ila (Mackey) Kennedy. On September 6, 1947, Bernie married Theodore J. "Ted" Kelsch, and they moved to Big Rapids in 1954. For several years, she worked for Root Archery, and then clerked for the Mecosta County courts for many years until retiring. Bernie loved music, theater, travel, playing bridge and cooking. She belonged to several choirs during the years including her church choir at St. Peters Lutheran Church, the West Michigan Lutheran Chorale, and Voca Lyrica of Big Rapids. Each of Bernie's interests gave her opportunities she never would have imagined and for which she was very grateful. She was a woman who realized she was truly blessed with precious friendships both old and new that have given her an abundance of love and joy beyond measure. How thankful she was for each and every one! In visiting with Bernie, it would not take you too long to realize how much she loved God and how thankful she was for her Savior Jesus. Her church, St. Peter's Lutheran, has been an integral part of her life and faith journey. She has expressed great thanksgiving for her beloved Pastor John Bookshaw and the amazing women of faith of her Friday morning ecumenical bible study group. You have each been such a blessing to her! Her family would also like to express thanksgiving to the caring and attentive staff at The Brook under the loving guidance of Pam Wilcox as well as each of her team members of Spectrum Hospice. Bernie is survived by her daughter Patricia (Stephen) Hitch of Egg Harbor, WI; daughter-in-law Carol Kelsch of Perry, MI; grandchildren Christopher (Nicole Miller) Hitch, Lindsay (Tony) Leif, Lauren (Jake) Albrecht, Kimberly (Bruce) McPherson, Kevin (Melissa) Kelsch, Kristina (Roger McDaniels) Gilman; great grandchildren Kevin Kelsch Jr., Kasey Kelsch, Kyle Kelsch, Kelsey McDaniels, Tate Leif, Cooper Leif, Amalia Albrecht, Jackson Albrecht, Miles Hitch and Vivian Hitch; sister Phyllis (Frank) Samoya of Cincinnati, OH; bother-in-law Edward Lardie of Traverse City; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her spouse Theodore J. "Ted" Kelsch in 1994, and her son Peter Gregory "Greg" Kelsch in 2016. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 11, 2017 at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, with Pastor John Bookshaw officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland View Cemetery. Bernie's family will greet friends at the Mohnke Funeral Home from 3-6:00 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 2017, and after 10 a.m. on Saturday at the church. Memorial contributions in Bernie's name may be made to St. Peters Lutheran Church, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
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