Thursday, April 11, 2019 8:11 am

Bernice Minerich, age 92, of Ellenboro, passed away Monday, April 1, 2019.

Bernice was born August 15, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Bernard Mayer and Susan Wachs Mayer. She lived most of her life in the Chicago area. Bernice was active in the Methodist Church where she participated in the choir and the Methodist women's society. After moving to Rutherford County in 2006, she became a member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church. Bernice was an avid gardener and a vital part of the Oswego, Illinois Garden Club. She had a "green thumb" and could grow about any type of flower or vegetable.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of forty-seven years, Charles Minerich; a grandson; brother, Nick Mayer and a sister, Lillian Mayer-Simmons.

Those left to cherish her memory include two daughters, Susan Bartuska (George) of Wellford, SC and Laurie Gagner of Ellenboro; son, Joe Minerich of Aurora, Illinois; seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

The funeral service was conducted at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel.

Memorial donations are requested to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, P.O. Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.