Catherine Bernius

In Loving Memory of Catherine Irene McLeod Bernius March 4, 1942 - March 5, 2026

Catherine Irene McLeod Bernius, lovingly known by some as Katie, passed away on March 5, 2026, in Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 84. Born on March 4, 1942, in Tacoma to Delwin and Lucille McLeod, Catherine lived a life as vibrant and spirited as her radiant smile that could light up any room.

Catherine's life was marked by curiosity, determination, and a zest for adventure. From working at the New York World's Fair to setting sales records for Touch of Mink luxury soap at the Puyallup Fair, and even taking on the roar of engines as a demolition derby driver at Spanaway Speedway, she embraced life with courage and enthusiasm.

She found joy in life's simple pleasures—piecing together jigsaw puzzles, mastering crossword puzzles on her clipboard, and engaging in competitive Scrabble matches. Catherine loved tap dancing steps, and had a passion for shopping trips across the United States with her best friend Cheryl. Whether it was exploring the Mall of America or browsing local swap meets, she delighted in finding treasures—especially new shirts, often more than one.

Catherine cherished the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. She loved the sea air at Westport, family time at Washaway Beach, and the peaceful charm of Harstine Island. She enjoyed digging clams, sharing crab Louies, and savoring the coastal gifts of nature. Sweet memories of Cousin Rena's dairy farm in George, Washington, held a special place in her heart.

Her career included years spent working at Pay 'n Save and Hiatt Motors. In retirement, Catherine and her husband Dick embraced the freedom of traveling in their motorhome. They spent winters as snowbirds in Tucson's sunshine but always returned to Washington for summers.

Catherine's strong work ethic kept her busy with projects—gardening under the warm sun, stirring pots of wild blackberry jam, or helping out at Mike's B&I Grill. She also treasured time spent with her grandson Daniel. To him, she wasn't just a grandmother; she was his beloved Nanni. She taught Daniel how to properly enjoy Swedish pancakes, climb cherry trees, ride bikes, dig clams, plant gardens—and most importantly—embrace life with her wisdom: "God made dirt, and dirt don't hurt."

Catherine also had a love for country music and often sang along while Dick played guitar. She took pride in her appearance; her nails were always painted, lipstick carefully chosen, and colorful costume jewelry—especially dangly earrings—always matched to her outfits.

In her later years, dementia slowly took its toll on Catherine's health. Despite this challenge, she experienced a profound moment of clarity during which she prayed to accept Christ as her Savior— a decision that brought peace to her family knowing she would spend eternity in Heaven.
Remarkably, Catherine passed away on the four-year anniversary of that meaningful day of faith.

Catherine was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Tom McLeod; her sister Delene Gaxiola; her nephew Christopher Gaxiola; and her husband Richard "Dick" Bernius. She is survived by her son Mike Southard and his wife Lisa; her daughter Kristine Southard; her grandson Daniel Southard; lifelong friend Cheryl Hill; dear friend Charlie Gibson; and many other beloved family members and friends who will forever carry her laughter and warmth in their hearts.

Catherine's legacy lives on through the stories shared by those who knew her—stories filled with fairgrounds and beaches, gardens and highways, laughter and love. Her memory will continue to brighten rooms with unexpected smiles.

After a life well lived, Catherine Irene McLeod Bernius rests in eternal peace—reunited with loved ones and spending eternity with her Savior Jesus Christ. May we all feel Catherine's presence whenever joy lights up our hearts once more.