Bernice Mayer

Mayer, Bernice - Age 88, died peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, March 31, 2011. She was born on August 9, 1922 in Detroit, the daughter of the late Thomas and the late Josephine (nee: Nowak) Ostrowski. In 1948, Bernice's life was wonderfully changed when she took that fateful walk down the aisle and promised herself in marriage to the love of her life, Leno. The two would go on to share 27 years together, growing in love and building a family. Along with being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Bernice was also the consummate homemaker. She loved to clean and labored maticulously in keeping everything spotless and welcoming. Another of her renowned homemaker traits was found in the magic she performed in the kitchen. Bernice loved to cook and bake, and there was never an unsatisfied belly around her table. Perhaps most memorable were her delicious, homemade pierogies and soups. And when it came to having something to sop up her soups, you could always count on there being a fresh slice of rye bread at the ready. Bernice loved rye bread, and made her weekly trek to the bakery to assure there was always a fresh loaf on hand. When it came time for personal enjoyment, some of her favorite interests included music, dancing, flowers, being curled up with a good book, and exercizing her hands & creative talents through her sewing and needlework projects. Yet, without question, her greatest passion in life was found in the hearts & lives of her family, the times they spent, and the wonderful memories they made together. Bernice was also a devout woman of God and possessed a faith that was strong and true. Praying the Rosary was something she was very devoted to, and a practice she enjoyed each & every day of her life. For 35 years, she was a faithful member of St. Bartholomew Catholic Church in Detroit, and a member of the Rosary Society there as well. In 1986, she became a member of St. Thecla Catholic Church in Clinton Township, where she went on to practice her faith and give in so many ways to the church and her fellow parishoners. Another proud membership she held, together with her husband, was with the Disabled American Veterans. They were true patriots and supporters of the organization for years. Bernice leaves behind a legacy of love and servanthood that will forever be unmatched. The lives she touched and impacted were many, but nonesomuch as those of her family & friends. The memories they made together are the sunshine in the daydreams that will brighten each remembrance of their Mom, Grandma, and friend. She was the beloved wife of the late Leno. Dear mother of Sharon Tricoli, Rodney (Susan) Mayer, Carlette (Michael) Bayer, and Lynn (Kevin) Bruce. Loving grandmother of Jeffrey (Lori) Tricoli, Janelle (Craig Stier) Tricoli, Andrea (Zachery) Grew, Shane Jacyno, Stefanie Bayer, Trevor Bruce, and Evan Bruce. Great grandmother of Leah, and Julie Tricoli. Dearest sister of Jean (Walter) Walczak, Cecelia (Norbert) Smith, and Lucille (Stanley) Pasleka. Devoted aunt of Mesha (Tim) Provo, Kevin Smith, Darlene (Guy) Mesclier, and great aunt of many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Sunday 3-9 pm with a 7 pm vigil service at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Rd at Common (12 mile). Mrs. Mayer will lie in state Monday at 9:30 am at St. Thecla Catholic Church until time of her Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. Please share memories at her guest book.