Bernice M. Kurzynski

Bernice Margret Kurzynski, age 90, of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home under the care of her family, along with home health and hospice care, on December 22, 2024.  Bernice was born on October 4, 1934, in Stevens Point, to the late George and Genevieve (Jazdezewski) Czaplinski. She was a lifelong resident of Stevens Point, where she was known for her kind heart, strong community ties, and dedication to education and learning.

On February 20, 1960, Bernice married Henry F. Kurzynski at St. Francis Xavier Church in Knowlton, Wisconsin. They shared 41 years of marriage until Henry's passing on January 31, 2002. Bernice carried on with strength and grace, cherishing the memories of their life together.

Bernice devoted herself to raising her children, instilling in them strong values and a love for learning. Forgoing a scholarship to Marquette University at age 16, she returned to school after raising her children, earning her college degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point at age 45. This achievement not only fulfilled her own educational aspirations but also served as a powerful example to her children of the value of education and lifelong learning.

Following her graduation, Bernice worked at UWSP, where she continued to work until the remarkable age of 75.  The university honored her with the 2006 Carolyn Rolfson Sargis Award, which recognizes staff members who epitomize the standards of outstanding and dedicated service and special contributions to the university.  Bernice's commitment to community service was exemplified by her role as Treasurer of Boy Scout Troop 298, a position she assumed after many years of service by her husband. Her dedication and leadership in this role earned her recognition as one of the few female leaders in the Boy Scouts.

Bernice was a woman of many interests. She enjoyed knitting and painting and particularly cherished adventures with her daughters-in-law, Jo Jo and Leah, and time spent cheering on and supporting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bernice was a devoted sports fan, always supporting her sons, grandchildren and favorite teams, the Brewers and the Packers. She loved nature and animals, feeding and watching her birds, and had a special affinity for her grand-dogs.

Bernice is survived by her children: Chuck Kurzynski, Gregg Kurzynski (Leah), and David Kurzynski (Joann); her three beloved grandchildren: Clair McDaniel (Adam), Anna Kurzynski, and Seth Kurzynski (Megan); and her three beautiful great-granddaughters, Evelyn, Teresa and Bernadette McDaniel, and one brother Richard Czaplinski. She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry; her parents, George and Genevieve; her brother, Robert; her sister-in-law, Helen; her sister, Florence; and brother-in-law, Paul.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on December 31 at 11:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Stevens Point. Father Steve Brice and Father James Kurzynski will be officiating. Burial will follow at the Guardian Angel Cemetery. Visitation will be held starting at 9:30 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church until the time of Mass. A lunch will be held at the church following the burial. For those who cannot attend, the Mass will be livestreamed and can be found on the church's website. In lieu of flowers, the family will be donating all gifts received to a continued scholarship in Bernice's name for the UWSP Interior Architecture program, Boy Scout Troop 298, and Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

Bernice will be remembered for her dedication to family, her pursuit of knowledge, her exemplary career, her service to the community, and her zest for life's simple pleasures. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.pisarskifuneralhome.com