Bernice Dorothy Jaehnig

Bernice D. Jaehnig, age 96, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2020, in Mesa, Arizona. She was born in Two Creeks, Wisconsin, on July 5, 1924, to Arthur and Edith (Geerdts) Zierzow.

In 1943 she was united in marriage to Ralph Jaehnig, and, like many young women during WWII, she worked stateside while her husband served in the U.S. Army. After his term of service ended, they settled in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, where they raised their family while operating Jaehnigs Liquor Store. In 1973, Ralph and Bernice moved to Mesa, Arizona, where they started Tri-Rentals, a party rental business. Bernice worked for many years alongside her husband and their two sons. She especially loved serving customers by adding her personal touch with decorated wedding arches, flower arrangements, and hand-made bows. Bernice, Ralph, and Ellen also always enjoyed their annual summer visits back to Wisconsin to see family and friends.

Bernice was preceded in death by Ralph (June 2007), her husband of 64 years, and their daughter Ellen Kay Jaehnig (October 2019). She is survived by her son Chet (Barb) of Chandler, Arizona; daughter Jane (Jim) Lepich of Manitowoc, Wisconsin; son Dan (Becky) of Phoenix, Arizona; as well as twelve grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren who love her dearly. She is also survived by her sister Elsie Mattek of Appleton, Wisconsin, and sister-in-law Donna Boyer of El Cajon, California, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

In her long life, Bernice touched the lives of many. Her children wish to thank the many friends from Pilgrim and Emmanuel Lutheran churches, her Mesa neighbors, and the staff from Emerald Glen who helped her in her final years. The prayers and care from family and friends near and far are greatly appreciated.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 31, at 10:00 am followed by a service at 11:00 am at Pilgrim Ev. Lutheran Church, 3257 E. University Dr., Mesa, Arizona. Those not able to attend are invited to watch the recorded service online at PilgrimMesa.com .

Memorials in Bernice’s name may be given to Pilgrim Lutheran Church and School (Mesa, Arizona), Arizona Lutheran Academy (Phoenix, Arizona), or Manitowoc Lutheran High School (Manitowoc, Wisconsin).

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16