Bernadette “Bernie” Firkus, 96

Bernadette “Bernie” Firkus, age 96, of Stevens Point, passed away on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital.

Bernie was born on November 5, 1926, in Stevens Point to the late Frank and Pauline (née Lilla) Wanta. She attended St. Peter’s Elementary School and graduated from P.J. Jacobs High School in 1945. Bernie married Dennis J. Firkus on July 16, 1949, at St. Peter’s Church. He preceded her in death on January 12, 1990.

Prior to her marriage to Dennis, Bernie was employed at First National Bank (now BMO Harris Bank). After her children were in school, she was employed at the WIAA (Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association) for 15 years.

Bernie was a member of Holy Spirit Parish and was involved in various groups in the parish: PCCW (Rosary Society), a 50-year member of the Catholic Daughters of America, Prayer and Spirituality Committee, Prayer Partners and participated in a bible group. She volunteered for many years at the St. Stanislaus Faith Formation Office and was a Eucharistic Minister for 30 years.

Bernie loved to travel. She was a fan of the Packers and the Badgers. Her favorite activity was playing bridge and she was in several groups.

She is survived by her son Tom (Marie) of Plover, daughter-in-law Suezanne, and grandsons Nicholas and Michael from California; sisters Theresa Nolan and Rita (Cliff) Leary from Stevens Point, sister-in-law Betty Wanta, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dennis, son Douglas, brothers Hubert, Max and Robert and sister Mary Jane Shafranski.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Bernie will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Stevens Point. Rev. Steven Brice will officiate the service. The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday morning at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at Guardian Angel Cemetery.

Shuda Funeral Chapel in Stevens Point is assisting the family with arrangements.