Obituary of Berniece Lucille Schmidt

Berniece Lucille Schmidt, lovingly known as Bernie to her friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully of natural causes on January 27, 2026, in Michigan, at the age of 78. Born on June 26, 1947, in Prescott, Bernie lived a vibrant life characterized by her loving nature, spirited personality, and the interesting life she built for herself and her family.

Bernie's journey began as the daughter of the late J.D. and Mary (Bergquist) Hall, and she grew up alongside her siblings, the late Jay Hall, Deloris Hall, and her surviving brother, Don Hall. Her early years set the stage for a lifetime of dedication to her family, a value she held dear throughout her life. Bernie was a proud graduate of Midland High School, class of 1994, and carried the lessons and friendships from those years with her always.

Her work ethic was evident in her long-standing career with Dow Ziplock and her time spent as a warm and welcoming waitress. Bernie's professional life was marked by her commitment and her ability to connect with those around her. Outside of work, she was an active member of both the RedNeck Yacht Club and the Albright Eagle's Club, where she was known for her community spirit and her knack for bringing people together.

Bernie's interests were as wide-ranging as her personality was large. She was an avid fisherwoman, with countless hours spent by the water, rod in hand, waiting for the next big catch. Gardening was another passion, and her yard was a testament to her green thumb, especially during the holidays when it transformed into a festive wonderland. Bernie was also a skilled card player, a Nascar enthusiast, and a pool shark, earning her the title of Queen of the Hill in her pool league. Her culinary skills were unmatched, and her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she cooked up love and laughter in equal measure. Traveling the world brought Bernie great joy, but nothing compared to the warmth of family and friends gathered around a hot bonfire, sharing stories under the stars.

Bernie's love for her family was her guiding force. She was a devoted mother to Cynthia Spiker, Raymond Spiker, Melissa Miller, Don (Jodi) Spiker, Christine (Uriah) Prosser, and David (Gretchen) Schmidt. Although she faced the heartbreak of losing her beloved husband, David Schmidt, and her cherished grandchildren, Violet and Amber, Bernie's legacy continues through her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, who will carry her memory forward.

Her love extended to her furry companion, Goofy, who was a constant source of joy and was always by her side. Bernie's home was a hub of activity, filled with the laughter of card games, the cheers of a Nascar race, and the clinking of pool cues. She was the life of every gathering, and her absence will leave a void that can never be filled.

Bernie Schmidt lived her life with an open heart and an open door, making a lasting impact on everyone she met. Her spirit will live on in the stories told, the gardens planted, and the warm embraces shared in her honor. As we say goodbye to Bernie, we do so with the knowledge that her legacy of love, strength, and joy will continue to inspire us all. Her life was a tapestry of rich experiences, and we are all the richer for having been a part of her story. May she rest in peace, forever remembered and forever missed.
 

A special thanks to the MyMichigan Hospice team, Missy, Becca, and Kristin for caring for Bernie in her final days. 

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 – 3 pm, February 15, 2026, at the Albright Shores Eagles Club, 1380 Estey Rd., Beaverton, MI 48612. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Albright Eagle's Kids Christmas Fund.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.