Bernice Ann Stachow

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS Bernice Ann Stachow August 28, 1922 - July 19, 2020 Bernice Ann Stachow 97, passed away in Wauchula, Florida. She was born August 28, 1922 in her hometown Racine, Wisconsin. You might have known her as Bea and when you said her name she would always say “Be Nice”. She was very proud of her heritage and would always let you know she was a Polack. Bernice loved living in Racine where she frequently visited the Racine Zoo, Wind Point, Racine Beach and Petrifying Springs Park. Bea was preceded in death by her parents, Anton and Ludwika (Wojciak) Stachow, her sister Stella and Wally Supiano, her brother Felix Stachow and brother-in-law Art Baker. She is survived by her sister, Mary Lou (Stachow) Baker and sister-in-law Lorraine (Bedner) Stachow. Also many nieces and nephews. She was a Devout Catholic and a longtime member of St. Johns Nepomuk church. She was also a longtime active member of the Christian Mother’s Society. She was a kind, considerate and giving person. Not coming from a wealthy family she still found the time and the resources to send care packages to her family in Poland. A quote often said by her and her sisters “the joy of living is giving”. After retiring from Hamilton Beach she continued working at Ametek Lamb. Bea played tennis in her younger years and switched to golf later on. Bea enjoyed doing crafts and she would always say “everything can be used twice”. She had many really dear friends and loved to travel to Europe, Florida and Canada, just to mention a few. Even though cooking was not her favorite thing to do, every year the entire family would celebrate the 4th of July at her house. And last but not least, we can’t forget to mention her love for working in her backyard. Her vegetable garden, fruit trees, grape vines, beautiful lawn and of course her gorgeous flowers. She did it all. After being diagnosed with dementia Bea, lived at St. Monica’s Assisted Living in Racine, WI for 5 years and truly enjoyed it. But when her younger sister moved to Florida, the family decided to take her with, where she became a member of the Wauchula Garden Club. Her sister, Mary Lou gave Bea the happiest final years anyone could ask for. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that were truly blessed to have her in their life and she will be forever remembered. I may be gone but please don’t cry Death is not the last goodbye Death releases me of my pain There will come a day we will meet again Don’t be blue and don’t be sad Think back to the fun we had I am always here I hear you speak In time of trouble its me you seek You don’t see me but I see you I will do my best to pull you through Speak to me and I will hear Never far I am always near Be brave do not cry See you again it’s not goodbye By Joh F Connor