Bernice M. Catlin

Bernice Catlin passed away peacefully shortly before her 100th birthday on February 16 at Emerald Valley Assisted Living, Appleton. She was born in Appleton on March 19, 1910, the second daughter of the late George and Rose (Trost) Catlin. Bernice enjoyed 38 years as a supervisor at the Wisconsin Telephone Co./AT & T. After retirement, Bernice worked part time at the Institute of Paper Chemistry and TelSec. She was a member of the Telephone Pioneers, Court Whist Card Club, and a lifetime member of St. Mary's Church, Appleton. She also bowled with co-workers, played piano, organ and mandolin. She was the ultimate caregiver for her parents, sisters, nieces, great nieces and nephews. Bernice traveled to California, Washington, Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Canada. She spent many wonderful vacations in Ephraim and Eagle River with her Mom, sisters Dolores and Rosemary and niece Nancy. Preferring to walk to school, work and church, Bernice had excellent health. Her Dad once named one of his fleet of row boats “Sturdy Bernice.” Everyone enjoyed her humor, wholesomeness and wit. She was dearly loved and will be long remembered by all who knew her. Bernice is survived by her 5 nieces: Nancy (Sagar) Krupa, Minneapolis and Peg (Patrick) Olk, Sandra Klapper, Mary (William) Schulz, Colleen (Terrance) Walsh, all of Menasha. She is also survived by many great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. Funeral services for Bernice will be held on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 S. State St., Appleton. Family and friends may visit at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will take place in St. Mary Cemetery, Appleton. A memorial fund is being established in her name.
The family would like to thank Dr. Lee Vogel and her staff who guided and cared for Bernice for many years. For nearly the last five years, Bernice lived at Emerald Valley Assisted Living, Appleton where the staff went out of their way to make her life comfortable and happy which the family greatly appreciates.
Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri-County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida St.
Appleton (920) 831-9905