Obituary of Bernice M. Clark

Olean – Bernice M. Clark "Loving Mother & Grandmother" Bernice M. Clark, of 679 Garden Avenue, passed away on Monday, May 31, 2021, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Bernice was born on April 23, 1928 in Olean, just a few houses down from where she passed away, and was a daughter of Merwin and Madeline Pachla Geise. At the age of 16, she met the love of her life, James E. Clark, while roller skating. Bernice and Jim were together for over 75 years. Bernice wore many hats. She worked at a garage that her mom owned pumping gas, as well as, at the tile plant, the glass plant, ACME, and babysitting for many Hinsdale families. Bernice was a Bluebird Campfire Leader. She sang in the church choir and helped out in Vacation Bible School. Bernice made miscellaneous things for missionaries and favors for church dinners. She painted saws, Vacation Bible School Banners, statues, and any artwork. Every Tuesday, five special ladies came to paint for many years. They painted on everything from leaves, glass, paper, and stone. Bernice loved taking old things and making them new and beautiful again. Bernice enjoyed crocheting afghans for all of her friends, knitting sweaters for young and old, and making baby stuff and bags. She made so many things. Bernice played Scrabble each week with her friends. She also liked doing puzzles, playing Words with Friends, Bejeweled Blitz, and Wordscapes to challenge her mind and relax. She was a tough challenger. Bernice loved working with silk flowers and made wedding bouquets. She also loved gardening, but she truly loved spending time with her friends and family. Bernice is survived by; 4 children, Karen (Guy) Bennett, Michael (Heather) Scott, Kevin (Lori) Scott, and Danice (Jim) Galloway; 2 step daughters, Kim (Harry) Stoner and Pam Cunningham; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews from around the country. Along with her loving and devoted husband, Jim, Bernice was predeceased by a step daughter, Jamie Creque and 2 sisters, Betty Champlin and Dorothy Kalbaugh. Friends will be received at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 East State Street, Olean, on Saturday, June 5, 2021 from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, at which time a Funeral Service will be held. The Rev. Bruce Taylor, Pastor of Abundant Life Ministries, will officiate. Burial will be at Mt. View Cemetery in Olean. Online condolences may be made at www.LetroMcIntoshSpinkFuneralHome.com