Bernice S. Sienkiewicz

Bernice S. Sienkiewicz, age 97 of Warren, died Tuesday, June 18, 2013 at home. She was born on December 25, 1915 in Kearny, New Jersey, daughter of the late Joseph and the late Anna (nee: Smiglewski) Piotrowski. For this New Jersey born Christmas baby, her youth would find her becoming a fellow Michigander when her parents and family relocated to the, then, bustling town of Flint. It was there, at the age of 18, that she promised herself in marriage to the man who swept her off her feet, her new husband, Frank. The relocation bug came biting again when she and Frank packed their bags and moved south to Detroit around the 7 Mile and Mt. Elliott area. They would eventually move again to Warren where she lived out the majority of her life raising and nurturing her family, and growing deeper in love with Frank with each passing day. Prior to her move to Warren, Bernice was part of the work-world where she served as a riveter for the Smith & Jones Company. But there's no question that the best, and most valuable, part of her work efforts were the loving tasks that went into caring for her husband and family at home.From growing up amidst Polish parents, to marrying a good Polish man, Bernice was quite proud of her Polish heritage and could often be heard speaking the language as well. But of all the ways her heritage rang true, it was her delectable Polish cooking that made the greatest impact. She was a fantastic cook in general, but when she dabbled in the old world Polish fare of tasty treats, smiles were enjoyed on both the faces and stomachs of all who were blessed to partake. Just thinking of her City Chicken and the ever-popular Kielbasa & Sauerkraut bring back memories that make the mouth water. And not merely her cooking, Bernice was also renowned for the tasty "sweet treats" she created, too,...most notably, her awesome cheesecake delights. When it came time for the family reunions and the food responsibilities were being doled out, there was never a doubt as to what Bernice would be bringing as the family congregated up at Meyers Lake. The art of cooking meant so much to Bernice, she found great enjoyment in passing down many of her talents to her daughter-in-law. Being one who possessed many of the old world traditions, Bernice's appreciation for food was also realized in her efforts toward canning. From the various vegetables and fruits that filled her pantry, there was countless hours devoted to standing over a hot stove and pouring her talents and care into each jar...be it the tomatoes, or the peaches, or the many jams & jellies she was known for. Another trait that defined Bernice was the immaculate condition of her home. She took much pride in the upkeep of her residence, and her home was truly "spotless." Always the dutiful homemaker, her house was a reflection of herself, so it was bound to be pristine and beautiful in every way.As if all that cooking, canning and house-cleaning wasn't enough evidence of the work of her hands, one of her favorite pastimes included even more handiwork through her love of crocheting. One of the pieces you'd often find her working on would be an ever-familiar afghan, something of which she loved to create, then gift to a family member upon its completion. On a chilly evening, many of her loved ones find great comfort and fond remembrance by being enveloped by one of Bernice's cozy creations. Then there was her love of playing card games,...especially when it came to the one that nobody could ever remember what its name was, so they called it the "No Name Game." Nothing more spelled fun like sitting around the table with loved ones, slingin' cards, and having a grand ol' time making the memories that will be enjoyed for a lifetime.In telling the story of Bernice, it just wouldn't be succinct without mentioning her tried & true faith in God. Her faith was real, and her love for God was strong. In every way, she lived the life of a servant and extended the care and compassion of a saint. Being proud of her association with St. Sylvester Catholic Church in Warren, Bernice was a faithful parishoner and an avid supporter of the church and its outreach to the community. She lived by the principles of the Bible, and did so with a reverence that was genuinely her own.A loving wife and mother, Bernice gave to her loved ones with the best of what she had to offer, always. But there will never be a doubt of the immeasurable and unique love she held for the most precious of God's gifts in her life, her treasured grandchildren, all. And not merely a doting Grandma, Bernice was also one of their greatest mentors as well. It was important to her that she spent time teaching each and every one of them something special that they could carry through life,...something that would leave a lasting impact and impression upon their hearts and souls. So in her own way, with each of them individually, she imparted something unique and valuable as only Grandma could. Bernice leaves behind a legacy of love that will transcend her absence and become a beacon of light to those who were blessed to know the special person she was. She touched a multitude of hearts and lives along the way and the example she set was truly Heaven-sent. She will be missed immensely and loved eternally.Bernice was the beloved wife of the late Frank J. Loving mother of Frank (Ana), and the late Genevieve Vennettilli-Milobar. Devoted grandmother of Gerry, Rosie (Steve), Frankie, Kenneth, Thomas, Raymond, Ed (Laura), Denise, Derek, Darlene (Alex), Kevin, the late Darrin, Duane, Karen (Steve), and the late Danielle. Great-grandmother of Jeremy, Jasmine, Michael, Alicia, Joshua, Tomesha, Angel (Calvin), Li'l Ed, Mario (Jodie), Erica, Rayna, Alec, Brandi, Nicole, and Brandon. Great-great-grandmother of Jayden, C.J., Marissa, Toni, Mario Jr., Alexi, Valentina, Khristina, Gary, and Grace. Sister of Sophie (Tom) Lajewski, and predeceased by siblings, Walt, Chet, Frank, Willie, Anne, Charlotte and Helen. She is also survived by several loving nieces, nephews, and many other loving family members. Visitation for Bernice will be held on Friday from 3-9pm, with an evening Rosary Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road) in Warren. Her Funeral Service will be conducted at 10:00am on Saturday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.Please share memories of Bernice at her memory book.