Bernice Van Winkle

Bernice Emelie Emma Van Winkle was born January 14 , 1921 in Moyer Township, Swift County, Minnesota, the daughter of Walter and Helen (Zager) Stock.  She was baptized on January 20 , 1921 and was confirmed on March 25 , 1934, both at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Shible Township.  Bernice attended Parochial School, at Shible, for grades 1 through 8.  She then attended Appleton High School, where she graduated in 1940.

On May 19 , 1940 she was united in marriage to Harold Van Winkle by Rev. Paul Gierke.  This union was blessed with over 70 years together and with five children: Vernon, Eunice, Richard, Marilyn, and Arlyn.  Bernice and Harold farmed in Hegbert Township until 1943 when they moved to Edison Township and lived there until 1964.  They then moved to Ortonville, until 1990, when they moved to Apple Ridge Estates in Appleton in 2001.

Bernice was involved with farm chores, enjoyed baking, canning, quilting, crafts, fishing, dancing and gardening.   She worked at Big Stone Canning factory in Big Stone, South Dakota for 10 years and the Ortonville Hospital for 10 years.  In her younger years, Bernice was active in Homemakers Club, Birthday Club, and was an Adult Leader in 4-H.  She was also a lifetime member of the Ladies Auxiliary and Ladies Circle.  Bernice was in the church choir, was a greeter at church, and also delivered bulletins and Meals-On-Wheels.

Bernice passed away on August 14 , 2016 in Appleton Area Health Services –Care Center.  She attained 95 years and 7 months of age.  She is survived by her children: Vernon (Nancy) Van Winkle of Ashby, Eunice Anderson of Tavares, FL, Marilyn Kraemer of Brainerd, and Arlyn (Connie) Van Winkle of Cape Coral, FL; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Walter (Julie) Stock of Savage; sister, Irene Johnson of Shakopee; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold in 2010; parents, Walter and Helen Stock; son, Richard Van Winkle; granddaughter, Vickie Van Winkle; great-granddaughters: Alicia Jobgen and Kelsi Conn; siblings: Harry Stock, Henry Stock, and Vera Rohloff.

Blessed be the memory of Bernice Van Winkle.