Bernice J. Shaffer, 87, of Fremont, OH passed away at home surrounded by her family on Friday, February 12, 2021. She was born on February 13, 1933 in Martin, OH to Emery and Velma (Fizer) Stroshine. Bernice married Richard Shaffer in Louisiana at a Gun Salute Military Wedding and he preceded her in death on January 1, 1992. She had a passion for makeup and opened a Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio here in Fremont. Bernice mainly tended to her family and home until her children were older and then became a baker in the deli at Great Scot for fourteen years. She enjoyed roller blading up into her mid-sixties, dancing, decorating her home, baking, cooking and planting flowers near her pool where she loved to plan parties. In her retirement years, Bernice enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to visit many countries. She loved her white maltase, Monique, who never left her side. Bernice had a great fashion sense in clothing, jewelry and never left the house without looking stunning.
Bernice is survived by her children, Tom (Tina) Shaffer, Terri Weickert and Lisa (Mark) Walther, all of Fremont, OH; sister, Wilma Cuthbertson, Millbury, OH; son-in-law, Brett Petro, Columbus, OH; grandchildren, Jodi Hamilton, Kristen O’Brien, Jenna Olivieri, Jarrod Weickert, Jordan Walther, Stephanie Baker, Kayleigh Walther, Joshua and Jacob Petro; special companion, John McConnell.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Tamara Petro; brothers, Norman and Lester Stroshine; sisters, Alice Scott, Verlyn Critch and Margery Whitte; grandchildren, Nichole Shaffer and Matthew Petro.
Services will be held private for the family.
Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery.
Memorials can be made in Bernice’s honor to Heartland Hospice.
View Bernice’s Memorial Video
Offer Condolences for the family of Bernice J. Shaffer
Print Obituary & Condolences
Jennifer Mlynski
Terri, Lisa and Tom,
I am so sorry to hear the news of your mom. I have so many good memories of being at your house with your mom cooking great meals and treats for us and always with full makeup and dress. Her short shorts were my favorite- such a gorgeous lady inside and out. She will be missed by many. You are all in my thoughts. Lots of love,
Jenny Miller ♥️
Elaine Dixie
My sincere condolences for Bernice Shaffer family and extended family. I met her several years ago, she was very inviting to me and my family.
Deborah A Eshleman
Tom, Tina, Lisa, Terri and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Over the many years of knowing Bernie, she always welcomed us with open arms. God bless you all during this difficult time.
Deb and Bob Eshleman
Rick and Sue Jenkins
To Tom, Terry and Lisa:
You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers. You mother was a wonderful person and it’s never easy, but we know she’s in a better everlasting place.
Rick and Sue Jenkins
Alison Minnich
So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was truly a beautiful lady inside and out. I remember how beautifully she dressed and that unmistakable bright smile she always seemed to have when we attended St. Paul’s church.
My deepest sympathy and prayers to you all during the difficult days ahead.
Alison White-Minnich
Jeff Werling
Tom, Terry and Lisa,
Am so sorry for your loss. Your mom will be missed by many.
You guys were lucky to have her as your mother.
Just loved your mom and dad, they were always so great to me and as with Tam I will smile every time I think of them.
Jeff
Jo Collins
Lisa, Terri, and Tom,
Your Mom was simply the best. So kind and a good listener who always sat down to talk and ask how you were and what you were up to. She was just so beautiful and genuine! Your Mom and Dad’s affection for one another was so very apparent and they are finally back with one another.
Much love,
Joanne
Bernie Fritz
Lisa, Terri, & Tom & families, So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was such a sweet person & friend. Enjoyed going to dances & spending time at her pool. Remember her roller blading, i would always jog. Condolences to all.