Bernice A. Van de Grift, age 91, a Manitowoc resident, entered into eternal life on Monday, December 05, 2011 at Shady Lane Nursing Care Center.

Bernice was born on April 3, 1920 in the Town of Meeme to the late Phillip and Katherine Kretsch Maurer. She attended Maple Corner School in the Kiel area and completed her education at The Hollywood School of Beauty in Appleton. On March 28, 1942, Bernice married William H. "Jack" Van de Grift at Louis Corners in Manitowoc County. Jack preceded her in death on January 18, 1995. Bernice liked cooking meals, sewing for her grandchildren, gardening, antiquing and shopping, being a foster mom to several children, and spending time with her family and friends.

Survivors include three children: Thomas Van de Grift, Naples, FL; Kaaren Van de Grift, St. Nazianz; and Steven (Patricia) Van de Grift, Manitowoc; nine grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; three great great grandsons; two brothers: Alan (Doris) Maurer, Manitowoc, and Philip (Helen) Maurer, Kiel; two sisters: Doris Wilbert, Sheboygan; and Kathryn (Monroe) Hansman, New Holstein; also nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Bernice was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Jack; two brothers: Kermit and Daniel Maurer; and one son-in-law: Allen Copiskey.

The family will greet relatives and friends for a celebration of Bernice's life on Thursday, December 8, 2011 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, N. 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc from 2 pm until 4 pm.

Bernice's family would like to thank both Ellan Schmieder and the entire staff of Shady Lane Nursing Care Center for the care and compassion they provided.