Bernadine Ann Bauer, age 86 of Billings, passed away Saturday December 8, 2012 at St. Vincent Healthcare in Billings following a brief illness. Bernadine was born in Miles City, MT on April 30, 1926 to George and Elizabeth (Maershbecker) Bauer. Berna (or Bernie as she was known to friends) lived in the Hysham area with her parents and 7 siblings and graduated from Hysham High School in 1946. She then went to beauty school in Billings and worked at the Powder Box (now Lil’s on 3rd) as a hairdresser for many years until her retirement. She attended St. Patrick Co-Cathedral in Billings. Berna was a kind and generous soul, giving beyond her means. She provided housing and nourishment to at least a dozen and half of her family members including brothers, nieces and nephews. Berna loved animals and often spoke fondly of caring for animals on the farm during her youth. She also doted on her cats. Berna had a sharp sense of humor and loved to laugh. She was a very giving and loving aunt, and though she had no children of her own, she was like a mother to her many nieces and nephews.
Berna is survived by two sisters; Cecelia Downey of Butte, Yvonne Olson (Norman) of Seattle, and two brothers: John of Albuquerque, NM and Mathew (Janice) of Forsyth.
She was preceded in death by her father and mother, George Sr. and Elizabeth, and Brothers George Jr., Frank, James and infant sister Elizabeth.
Aunt Berna we will miss your big heart and generous and loving nature. You were a light in our lives.
A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at 11:00 am Friday December 14th at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Forsyth. Burial will follow in the Forsyth Cemetery.
Stevenson and Son’s Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these arrangements and condolences may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com
Carol Ferguson Moore says
Max and all,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all with the passing of Berna. I know she was a great aunt to your chil