Berniece Irene Connin

Berniece Irene Connin, 95, passed away peacefully, July 26, 2025, wearing her red lipstick to the very end. She and her twin sister were born in 1930 in Paulding, Ohio. In 1948, at the age of 18, she married Clarence "Skeeter" Connin, and they soon moved to Fort Wayne, where they raised their son and daughter. They loved to travel and took their kids on many camping excursions, from Canada to Florida, Michigan to California. Berniece believed any heartbreak could be instantly wiped away with a good home cooked meal and she delivered many. She was especially known for her beef stew, round steak, and snickerdoodles. Throughout her life she held most dear her family, her pets, and her ever present red lipstick. She was also fond of cooking, puzzles, and playing games. Nothing thrilled her more than rolling a yahtzee and her expressions at the moment caused great hilarity around the game table. Berniece was well loved by her family and friends and is survived by, son, Michael J. (Ellawynn) Connin; daughter, Cynthia L. (John) Helmkamp; grandsons, Brent (Julia) Helmkamp, Ben Helmkamp, and Chad (Chantel Boling) Helmkamp; and great-granddaughter, Zeta Helmkamp. Berniece would often jokingly say "You're gonna miss me when I'm dead and gone!" And she was right; we already miss you! Calling will be from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46835 with friends and family (wearing red lipstick) gathering at her house afterward. A graveside service will be 2:00 pm on Monday, August 4, 2025 at Live Oak Cemetery, 606 Emerald Road, Paulding, Ohio 45879. Memorials in Berniece's memory made be made to Humane Fort Wayne. Condolences and memories of Berniece may be left online at www.hockemeyermillerfh.com