Bernice R. Wilkens (nee Gerner), age 96 years, of West Bend was called home to be with the Lord on June 30, 2026 at Cedar Community in West Bend surrounded by her loving family.

Bernice was born on December 29, 1929 in West Bend to Arthur and Ella (nee Fick) Gerner. She was united in marriage to Milton Herman Wilkens at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Newburg on July 2, 1949.

Bernice graduated from West Bend High School. She worked in the office at Amity Leather in West Bend. Later she worked at Enger-Kress Pocket Book Co. in West Bend. Bernice enjoyed spending time fishing with her husband, Milton. She also loved knitting and baking, especially making Christmas cookies for family and friends.

Those Bernice leaves behind to cherish her memory include her son, Michael (Lynette) Wilkens; two grandsons, Michael A. Wilkens II and Thomas M. Wilkens; three step-grandchildren, Carisa (Wade) Deheck, Carrie Miller, and Larry Miller; two great-grandsons, Taylor and Carson Wilkens; brother, Warren (Lucille) Gerner; and dear friend, Susan Kohler. She is further survived by six step-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, Bernice was preceded in death by her husband, Milton; brother, Howard (Esther) Gerner; and sister, June (Bill) Kirby.

VISITATION: Bernice’s family will greet relatives and friends on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 12:00 Noon until 1:15 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Newburg (623 Congress Drive).

SERVICE: A Memorial Service in remembrance of Bernice will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Friday at Church with Pastor Jonathan Arndt officiating. Graveside service and urn burial will be at the church cemetery immediately following the service.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Cedar Community for their care and compassion.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Bernice’s arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence on the tribute wall, please visit www.myrhum-patten.com.