Submitted by: Dan Rich

Bernice Alice Opaczewski

Jan. 17, 1921 - Oct. 4, 2008

South Bend Tribune 10/6/2008
SOUTH BEND - Bernice Alice Opaczewski, 87, passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, October 4, 2008, in Memorial Hospital of South Bend. Bernice was born on January 17, 1921, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Stazy and Sadie (Wroblewski) Zelasko. She was one of 11 children and spent her childhood in the New Carlisle area working on farms and helping care for her younger siblings. During World War II, Bernice, along with her sisters, Irene and Frances, were one of many "Rosie the Riveters," making electrical boxes called "spacers" at Roach Appleton. On March 10, 1945, she married Raymond J. Opaczewski, who preceded her in death on July 18, 1996. Bernice is survived by her children, Ronald J. Opaczewski, Barbara J. Wassenhove and Cynthia A. Opaczewski. "Bushie" is also survived by her grandchildren, Emily (Mike) Walker and Ellie (Tim) Blotkamp; along with her two great-grandchildren, whom she cherished, Sadie and Maggie Walker. Also surviving are a sister, Irene Sipotz; brothers, Albert (Carol) Zelasko and Donald (Betty) Zelasko; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Zelasko and Marlene Zelasko; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved pets, including Libby and Stasha. Along with her parents and husband Ray, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, David Wassenhove; sisters, Lottie, Rose and Frances; and brothers, Ed, Stazy Jr. and Louie. Bernice was a homemaker, loving mother and "Bushie." She enjoyed tending to her many plants, playing with her dogs, and cooking traditional Polish meals. Her family always looked forward to her Easter ham! She also enjoyed traveling with her daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and their weekly shopping trips. She will be forever in our hearts.