Marian pic obit

Marian Bernsen

Marian Bernsen, 96 years young, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 19, 2025. She was the devoted wife of the late Jack Bernsen; beloved mother and mother-in-law of Mark (Cindy) Bernsen, Chris (Steve) Roberts, and Nancy (Bob) Brasfield; and cherished grandmother of Jennifer (Dan) Szeezil, Corey White, Garry (Elma) Garrison, Jill (Dan) Romano, Julie (Ray) Katke, Craig (Sheila) Gracey, Curt Gracey (deceased), and Brett Gracey. She was also the proud great-grandmother known affectionately as Gigi and the dear daughter of Anne Gibbons (deceased). Marian was a treasured friend to many.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Marian attended St. Teresa Grade School and graduated from Laboure in 1946. She married the love of her life and took great pride in raising three wonderful children. Some of her happiest memories were made during summers at the family lake house, surrounded by relatives and lifelong friends.

Marian was known for many things, but perhaps most impressive was her extraordinary ability to enjoy boating, swimming, and even water skiing without ever getting her hair wet, a skill admired by all and mastered by none.

She was an avid bridge player and took up golf for one very good reason: so she could enjoy the game alongside Jack. She was also a dedicated Jafra consultant for many years, faithfully serving her most loyal, and only, client: herself.

Her Irish heritage shone through in her steadfast belief that family always comes first, a value she passed down to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Marian was loved by many and her life will be celebrated with a private ceremony. Please celebrate a life well lived and a woman who was well loved. We invite you to honor her beautiful life with some of her favorite things: Dots, a good laugh, Dove ice cream with dark chocolate, and an ice-cold Diet Coke, or by making a donation to your favorite charity.

9 Comments

  1. Joyce Katke on December 23, 2025 at 7:27 pm

    She always looked beautiful. Hair and makeup always perfect. Enjoyed the times I got to have lunch with her.Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.❤️



  2. Eileen and Gail on December 24, 2025 at 3:43 am

    Blessings to you all … What a wonderful reunion in Heaven ❤️



  3. Mary Lynne Porzel on December 24, 2025 at 10:07 am

    Marian was a wonderful neighbor, but as time went by, she became a treasured friend. She enjoyed monthly Bunco, Left Right center, then going out to dinner with many of the neighbors. Black and White her favorite colors and of course her silver jewelry.
    One of the sweetest ladies that I’ve been blessed to know. I well certainly miss her warm and genuine personality.



  4. Mary Mueller on December 24, 2025 at 10:24 am

    Marian will be truly missed. She was a great neighbor and the ladies night out for dinner won’t be the same without her. May her soul rest in peace!



  5. Linda Katke and Family on December 24, 2025 at 5:13 pm

    Prayers go out to you and your family.
    Marian was a real treasure. Her kind soul and generosity will be remembered.



  6. PATTY HIRSCHBUEHLER on December 24, 2025 at 8:07 pm

    Marian was a beautiful lady and always was so kind to me when we talked on the phone. I recently visited her when she had turned 96 and we had a fun time sharing a cold Diet Coke and she shared that she has one every day along with a Dove ice cream bar. I left feeling so inspired by her strength and courage.

    I will miss you Marian,
    Love,
    Patty Hirschbuehler



  7. Melissa Black on December 26, 2025 at 9:29 am

    Marian,
    I will miss our visits, talking about anything and everything. Your presence is greatly missed .
    Missy



  8. Karen Macalady on December 27, 2025 at 8:35 am

    Marian (and Jack) were such good friends with my dad and mom. My dad will definitely miss her. They all loved their diet cokes for sure! Love and prayers for the whole family.



  9. Twana Jackson Banker and Friend! on January 14, 2026 at 2:25 pm

    Mrs. Marian,
    Coming from your Banker and friend forever you will truly be missed. I promised when Nancy, came into to the branch Mrs. Marian to take care of your affairs I took good care of your daughter like I did you! Take your rest now and thank you Nancy for the great friendship and bond we now have due to your loving and kind mom. The Bernsen Family is in my thoughts and prayers during your time of bereavement. You guys had a great jewel in Mrs. Marian!! (REST IN HEAVEN)



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