Bernice E. Schoelles

Bernice Evelyn Schoelles, age 99 of Country Club Retirement Center at Dover died peacefully Sunday, November 18, 2007. A daughter of the late Solomon and Pearl Lenhart Gatschet, Bernice was born on the South Side of New Philadelphia on October 18, 1908. Bernice attended New Philadelphia High School and later met the love of her life, Creston, whom she married in 1934 and passed away in 1986.Bernice was a life member of Broadway United Methodist Church and could always be found there serving dinners and participating in activities. She also was a member of the “Ladies Class” quilting group. In addition to her church and quilting activities, Bernice was know for her excellent cooking and baking skills and was especially known for her blackberry pie.Mrs. Schoelles is survived by four children, Sandra “Tyke” (Jerry) Bichsel of New Philadelphia, Creston “Sonny” (Ramona) Schoelles of New Philadelphia, Sue (Dean) Stephan of New Philadelphia, and Pamela (Billy) Griffey of Indiana. In addition to her parents, Bernice will be missed by her twenty grandchildren, forty three great grandchildren, and ten great great grandchildren.Also surviving is a niece Anna Mae Schuepbach-Swinderman.In addition to her parents and husband, Bernice is preceded in death by two daughters and their husbands; Doris & Charles Cardani, and Betty & Joe Bonanno. Also preceding her in death are a sister and her husband, Harriet & John Schuepbach and a brother and his wife, Ward and Jeanette Gatschet. A niece, Shirley West, a nephew Jack Schuepbach and a son-in-law, Rick Everett also precede Bernice in death. Friends may call Tuesday, November 20, 2007 from 10:00 AM Â? 11:00AM at the Broadway United Methodist Church at New Philadelphia. A service honoring Bernice’s life will begin at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bill Sowers officiating. Burial will take place in East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia. Following the committal, a reception for family and friends will be held at Broadway United Methodist Church.Memorial contributions in honor of Bernice may be sent to Broadway United Methodist Church 120 Church Street SE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.