Death of Bernice Catherine Martz

Bernice Catherine Martz, 95, of Berrien Springs, passed away quietly, just as she lived her life, on Thursday, July 7, 2022, in the peace and comfort of her home, surrounded by her family.

Her family esteemed her the best wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and she will be greatly missed. As she sleeps, waiting for Jesus’ return, we claim to the hope in John 14:1–3, “Let not your heart be troubled; if you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

Bernice was born Sept. 26, 1926, in Peoria, Illinois, to the late Leslie and Bessie (Harris) Carson. She grew up the only daughter amongst three brothers, David, Dale and her twin brother, Bertram. Hardworking values were instilled in their family, and each life attested to that.

In August of 1948, she married Kenneth Martz. Kenneth and Bernice enjoyed spending time with their family, celebrating holidays at their home, and many happy winters in the Florida sunshine. Kenneth preceded her in death on Dec. 21, 2011.

Bernice was a wonderful homemaker who opened her heart, as well as her home, providing childcare and leaving a positive impact on many community children over the years. She enjoyed a clean house, baking, canning, feeding the birds, flower gardening, and reading. She had a strong abiding faith in God, a gentle spirit, a giving heart, and daily she could be found reading her Bible and having her devotions. She was a faithful member of the Village SDA Church.

She is survived by her children: James (Barbara) Martz, Kay (Frank) Zappia, Karen (Doug) Martz-Janssen; her grandchildren: Annie (Mark) Beardsley, Tony (Summer) Zappia, Kent (Alice) Zappia, Jason (Holly) Martz, Amanda (Cory) Reeves, Stephen (Katie) Waterbrook, Sarah Waterbrook; and 20 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers and her husband.

A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 12, at the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church, with visitation at 12 noon prior to the service. Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Village Adventist Elementary School, 409 W. Mars St., Berrien Springs, MI 49013. Messages and memories can be shared at www.allredfuneralhome.com.