Bernadette M. Michalak

Bernadette Marie Michalak "Bernie"

Auburn, Michigan

Bernie passed away peacefully at home comforted by her husband Jerome and son Mark on November 11, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on April 10, 1936, Bernadette’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and the importance of family.

A devoted wife to Jerome “Mike” Michalak, whom she married on September 22, 1962, they shared 62 years of devotion and partnership. Together, they raised four sons: Michael (Penny), Mark (Dawn), Dave, and Dan (Jean) Michalak, who carry forward her spirit and teachings. Bernadette took immense pride in her 22 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, nurturing the next generations with the same love and guidance she provided her own children.

Bernie's career was marked by her commitment to her family and community. She worked at Dow Chemical until the birth of her sons, subsequently she worked at Little Caesars Pizza on North Union. She also contributed her time and talents to Bay City Public Schools as a lunch lady, noon aide, and volunteer. Bernie loved sports, especially baseball. She touched hundreds of lives in her 20+ years of coaching Little League. She was a huge Detroit Tigers fan, rarely missing a game. Furthermore, Bernadette served her church in various capacities, including teaching catechism and participating in RCIA. An active and engaged individual, she instilled a strong work ethic in her sons by involving them in daily tasks such as picking pickles during the harvest season and raising farm animals. Her personality shone through in her ability to invest time and love in her family, including her parents and siblings, creating an enduring legacy of connection and support.

Bernadette is preceded in death by her parents, Horace and Martha (Reuther) LaFramboise, and twelve siblings. Her legacy lives on through her loving husband, sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her sister Therese (Tom) Reer, several sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bernadette was a devout Catholic. Her life was one of love, dedication, and unwavering support. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, November 18, 2024 at 12:00 o'clock Noon at Prince of Peace - Sacred Heart Campus 1000 E. Beaver Rd., Kawkawlin, Michigan 48631. The celebrant will be Rev. Fr. Andy LaFramboise, her great nephew, with private inurnment taking place with the family at a later time at St. Patrick's Cemetery. The family will be present on Sunday at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. 201 W. Midland St., Bay City, Michigan 4870 to receive family and friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. with a Vigil Service taking place at 7:00 p.m. and on Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of mass. Those planning an expression of sympathy may consider donations to Prince of Peace parish or the Toni and Trish House.