Bernice Hammermaster

Bernice Frances Hammermaster went to be with the Lord and her husband, Robert, on August 30, 2025. She was bom January 22, 1936 and lived to be 89 years old. Bernice was bom at home in New Boston, Michigan. She was the fourth child of Francis and Ethel Larabell. Her siblings were Theresa, Rosalie, Gerald (all who predeceased her), Joan, and Linda. She told how she helped out on the farm by picking and selling berries and other farm produce. She also helped when her baby sisters were born. She told how she would walk Joan home from school almost daily, and would rush home from high school just to hold her youngest sister, Linda. Bernice always talked about helping her sister Theresa at the restaurant in Hillsdale, Michigan and helping her sister Rosalie with her newborn son, David, and later her niece, Barbara. She also said her brother Gerald would bring her gifts from the PX when he was in the Army. When she was working at Bunny’s restaurant in 1954 she met the love of her life, Robert. Brother Gerald “interviewed” Robert, and Robert passed the interview. They married on May 14, 1955 and were married for close to 70 years. Robert passed away in May 2025. Bernice and Robert had three children, Donna, Carolyn, and Robert Michael. Sadly, Robert Michael passed away. However, Bernice still had lots of love to give to her daughters. Bernice and Robert were never apart. They were always together, going out to eat, to the casino, Greenfield Village, and antique shopping. One thing Bernice was known for is her super shopping skills. She could find a $300.00 coat that was marked down to $2.50! She even had the salesladies called her at home to tell her when sales were on. Bernice lived most of her life in the downriver area, moving to the Holly, Michigan area to be closer to her daughters. When she moved to Westlake Nursing Center, she and Bob still enjoyed each other's company. They went to Bingo, music, and various other activities. Bernice particularly loved the music programs and would sing enthusiastically. She especially loved when "Elvis" came to sing- she was thrilled. But the thing she loved most of all was her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Bernice went to dance recitals, hockey games, band shows, birthdays and anniversaries. She was always ready to hold her grandchildren and great grandchildren; sometimes for hours. Bernice will always be remembered for her sharp wit, feistiness, and sense of humor. She was fun, loving, and fiercely loyal to her family. They could do no wrong in her eyes. The family would like to thank the staff at Westlake for the hours spent talking to her, caring for her, and just loving her. "Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our mind holds the memories. Out heart keeps the love. Our faith lets us know we will meet again" (Kelly's Treehouse).

Bernice Hammermaster

January 22, 1936 - August 30, 2025