Bernadine Ann Skripka, age 102, passed away peacefully November 23, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents Anton and Norma Stauber; husband, Victor James Skripka; brother, Leo Stauber; sister-in-law, Mavis Stauber; son-in-law, Gary Mckenney; and grandson, Scott Skripka. Bernadine is survived by her children James (Lynne), Wayne (Mary), Paul (Kathy) Skripka, and Norma Jean (Gary) McKenney; grandchildren Daniel, David, Eric, Thomas, Michelle, Christine, Michael, Julie, Steven, Nicholas, Joseph, Jennifer and their spouses; and 28 great-grandchildren.
Bernadine was born and grew up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin where she met and married her husband, Victor. She told stories about picking strawberries and peas on her Aunt Helen’s nearby farm. After World War II they moved to Big Rapids, Michigan where Victor completed his pharmacy degree. They then moved to Zeeland where “Vic” worked as a pharmacist at Hahn’s Drug store. Next they moved to Grand Rapids where they had Skripka Drugs at 748 West Leonard for ten years. The soda fountain was a big draw for customers. The family’s home church was St. Peter and Paul’s for many years. Bernadine typically traveled by way of the Milwaukee Clipper steamship back to Sheboygan each summer for a one or two week visit with her parents and many relatives and friends. That included attending a family reunion of over 100 people at Kiwanis Park. She would speak German with her parents if she didn’t want the children to understand. Bernadine will be remembered as a loving mother and friend.
Her family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Brookcrest for their excellent loving care of Bernadine for these last years.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, November 26, 2021 at Cook Funeral Home (West building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, and from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, November 27 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.
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