Bernice Meier

Bernice Meier

1921 - 2017

Bernice Inez Meier, 95, of Pullman, died Monday, Dec. 4, 2017, of a short, undetermined illness. She and her twin sister, Bernette, were born Dec. 27, 1921, in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Canada, to Christina and Charles Thomas. Early in her life, her family moved to Edwall, Wash., before settling in Clarkston, where she grew up and attended school. Bernice graduated in 1940 from Clarkston High School, where she excelled in academics and leadership.

Following high school, Bernice attended Lewiston State Normal School (now LCSC) and received a teaching certificate. She taught briefly at a one-room schoolhouse in Melrose, Idaho, and at Reubens School in Reubens.

On Oct. 10, 1942, Bernice married Eddie D. Meier of Melrose, Idaho. They resided in Melrose until Eddie joined the U.S. Army at the end for World War II. She lived in Clarkston during his stint in the military, and he joined her there after his discharge. While in Clarkston, they had their two children, Chuck and Inez. In 1949, they returned to and lived on the Melrose farm until moving in 1957 to Pullman, where they remained for the rest of their lives. They

celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary before Eddie's death in 2011.

Bernice worked as a medical receptionist for Dr. Morton and Dr. Tomlinson for many years. Once the doctors retired, she worked at Washington State University Student Health Department until her retirement in the mid-1980s.

After retirement, Bernice and Eddie enjoyed extended trips in their motor home, continued to grow a beautiful garden and relished time with family.

Central to Bernice's life was her extensive network of family and friends, many of whom were treated to her home cooking. Family gatherings were always delicious thanks to Bernice and Bernette. Family, friends and neighbors all enjoyed products from her kitchen. Her pies, cookies and cinnamon twist were especially coveted, as was her homemade bread (affectionately referred to as "Grandma bread" by family members).

Bernice exhibited amazing energy and independence into her 90s, still baking cookies and pies, staying in touch with numerous friends and relatives, and acknowledging birthdays and anniversaries with cards and often gifts. All the while, she maintained a spotless home and cared for Cali, her old, beloved cat. She had great love and empathy for all animals.

She lost speed during her 93rd year and finally relinquished her driver's license that year. In February 2017, it became necessary for her to move into an adult family home. She was lovingly and personally cared for by the Mutisya Ndambuki family at Robville in Pullman, where she remained until her death.

Bernice is survived by her brother, Bill Thomas, and his wife, Arlene, of Clarkston; son Chuck and wife Jeanne of Lacey, Wash.; daughter Inez Kalin and husband Bob Del Rosario of Pullman; and grandchildren Kyann Kalin and husband Peter Stutheit of Portland, Ore., Brian Meier and wife Lee of Lacey, and Jason Meier and wife Danielle of Olympia. She also had six great-grandchildren: Sabine and Walter Stutheit, and Jamie, Autumn, Roman and Jonah Meier. Numerous other nieces, nephews and friends considered her "Mom" or "Grandma." She loved them all and they adored her for her thoughtfulness, caring and compassion.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Eddie, twin sister Bernette and husband Stan Berry, and sister Muirine Lute.

A celebration of Bernice's life will be held in early March. The family will provide additional information. Kimball Funeral Home of Pullman is caring for the family. Online condolences may be sent to www.kimballfh.com.