MARQUETTE – Bernice L. Lemire, 87, formerly of 222 South Fifth Street, Marquette, entered eternal life early Friday morning, September 22, 2006, at the Eastwood Nursing Center in Negaunee, where she had resided since April 2005.

Born January 17, 1919 in Marquette, a daughter of Edward and Frances (Beaudette) Dauphinais, Bernice was a lifelong resident. On October 24, 1935, she married Howard Lemire and together the couple made their home and raised their family in Marquette. Bernice was employed as a cook in area restaurants prior to employment as a presser at the Dallas Cleaners. She retired in 1980. A member of the former St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Bernice was currently a member of St. Christopher Catholic Church. Bernice took great pride in her family and greatly enjoyed the time spent with them.

A loving, caring, and devoted mother and grandparent, Bernice is survived by three daughters, Sandra (Claude) Smith of Stonington, Deanna (Robert) Soli of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, and Debra Havel of Big Bay; three sons, Neil (Michele) Lemire of Gwinn, Wayne (Pat) Lemire of Meadows of Dan, VA, and Howard Lemire Jr of Marquette; 20 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 2 great great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Bernice was preceded in death by her husband, Howard, in 1957; a daughter, Barbara Kalbfleisch; daughter-in-law, Sharon Lemire; granddaughter, Brenda Kalbfleisch; two great-grandsons, Daniel and David Lemire; her sister, Rhea Smith; and brothers, Lloyd, Claude, and Edward Dauphinais.

Graveside inurnment services will be held at the Holy Cross Cemetery on Monday afternoon, September 25, at 2:00 pm.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff and residents of the Eastwood Nursing Center for the many kindnesses extended to Bernice and her family. The compassionate care and friendly atmosphere greatly added to Bernice’s quality of life.

The Fassbender Funeral Home is serving the family.