Bernita M. Berger, age 85, of Jasper

Bernita was born on March 2, 1940, to Emil and Amelia (Ebert) Laake. She married Harvey M. Berger on June 21, 1962 in St. Ferdinand Catholic Church.She was a 1958 graduate from St. Ferdinand.  

In her younger years, she dedicated her life to raising her children. At the age of 80, she retired from Springs Valley Bank and Trust after over 30 years of service.

Bernita was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, St Anne’s Society, the Daughter’s of Isabella, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Jasper German Club, and the Jasper City Park Board. She was a dedicated Jasper Band parent when her children were in high school.

Bernita was the matriarch of the family, known for her gift of entertaining and making everyone feel welcome. Her home was the heart of family gatherings, where her amazing food, recipes, and beautiful presentations became cherished traditions. Holidays were especially memorable under her care, as she poured her heart into every detail, creating moments her family will never forget. To her siblings, nieces, and nephews, and extended family, she was not only the eldest of five children, but also the legend who set the standard for what it meant to celebrate life, treasure family, and live it to the fullest.