Bernice Bechard, Woodward, age 92 of New London, died on Tuesday, May 21, 2013.
Bernice was born on September 16, 1920, to the late Milton and Wilhemina (Apps) Woodward. She was united in marriage to Leon J. Bechard, at the Methodist Church Parsonage. He preceded her in death in 2010. In 1942, they moved to Bear Creek, where Bernice was Post Master from 1957-1983. She served as treasurer for the Booster Club and chairman of Bear Creek branch for the Salvation Army. She was instrumental in writing the lyrics for the Wild Rose High School song where she graduated from in 1937. Bernice was very active in the Methodist Church and used her talent by playing the piano on Sunday and special occasions.
She is survived by her children: Dennis (Lois) Bechard, Waupaca; Connie (Jack) Lehman, Appleton; Thomas (Sue) Bechard, Plover and Debra Bechard, Waupaca. Grandchildren: Scott (Martha) Bechard, Steve (Lisa) Bechard, Jeffrey (Dawn) Lehman, Todd (Mary) Lehman, Brian Lehman (special friend, Shelly), Craig (Andrea) Lehman, Deb (Larry) Van Straten, Mark Bechard (special friend, Janet), Chris Pelkey and Brittany Timm. Bernice is further survived by 23 great-grandchildren, 17 great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Her parents, husband Leon, two sisters and a brother preceded her in death.
Funeral services for Bernice will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2013, at 2:00 PM at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home, New London with Pastor Jordan officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. and also on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Interment will be in the Union Cemetery, Wild Rose, WI. Our family wants to thank Dr. Houlihan and his staff, Dr. Ballard and his medical assistant and Heartland Hospice (special thank you to Lori and Jana), also thanks to the staff at the Chattman Apartments in New London for the care given to our mother. Assisting the family is Cline & Hanson Funeral Home, New London. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com