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Berend Schaafsma Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Berend Schaafsma
Denise Benash
December 16, 2008
It's snowing today.....and I'm sure you will be watching down, looking to see if I'm going to take Kobe sledding......lol....anyway, this is my final entry, my final time to write in this book to tell you how much I miss you. We went to you mom's Saturday, it was like reliving this horrible nightmare all over again except this time I went there knowing you weren't coming back. It was nice to talk with your mom and sister and remember some of the wonderful memories we have had together.. I have had people calling me all weekend telling me that it will get easier as time passes. I have a hard time believing that. My heart hurts everyday that you are not here. I just keep telling myself that one day we will meet again. Kimi and I found some wonderful necklaces that say "Soul Friend" engraved on it. We got one especially made for you.... That is what you are to us and will always be. We will never forget.... I won't let anyone..... I love you... Until we meet again, I will keep you with me in my dreams and with Kobe. Forever.
Amy Schumacher
December 10, 2008
Well Bernie,
Its almost been a year, and not a day went by that I havent thought of you. In the beginning it was so hard to accept the fact that you were really gone. I had to let go of my thoughts and realize "That anything can happen at any time" I would sometimes sit there and think to myself "Why"..."Why then" We always sit back and take for granted the lives we live, the friends we have, and the things we do. I have learned thats not the way to live life, thanks to you Bernie, I have learned that you dont take anything for granted. Take life as serious as it is, because today is today but there may never be a tommorrow. Your little guy has grown up to be such a little man. He still talks about his "Dada" I know you are watching down on him. We have been out a few places since you have been gone, that I know you would of enjoyed doing. I know you are looking down on all of us. Everyone still thinks of you, everywhere we go someone brings your name up. Even the "Haters are still "Hating" but we are all hear to laugh at them like you would. Even if its the annoying loud laugh you used to do...Hahaha...On Christmas I am going to look up at the Brightest star in the sky and wish that you were here with us..I will see you one day my friend, until then remember you will never be forgotten, and I want you to know that the Lord recieved one of his best when you left us. Only he knows why he wanted you back so early. ..Im looking forward to another new year of friendship from above, 19 years is along time to forget someone. I will never forget when I first met you. What was with that damn Bike you used to ride around everywhere..hahaha..I will never let that go, even if your not here to "Listen to me cackle on you about that" I will always remember every memory we had good or bad. I love you Bern, Merry christmas sweetie.
Love "Schumacher"
Rhonda Beasley
October 24, 2008
I miss you Bernie. You was my texting buddy! You had a way of making me smile--even when I was hundreds of miles away.
Kimi Schumacher
June 5, 2008
Well I said that I wasn't going to write in this guest book again but it's been almost 6 months since we last laughed and cried together, last month everyone threw me a surprise 30th birthday party at Amy's and I was reminded of my 21st that night so many times Do you remember that Bern all I know is it took like 2 hours for you to get me off the dance floor to go to the next club, and when I looked at everyone there at my 30th it was as if I were 21 again, I used your slogan that night "30's the new 20" but you not being there to spend that with me was just not what I thought would ever be and I miss my best friend more than anyone could ever know.I sometimes sit here wondering what I should do sometimes and I try so hard to think of what Great Advice you would give me and I never know what to think because I think to myself.." I NEVER KNEW WHAT YOU WOULD SAY NEXT" You always helped me think of the best ways to go about something and now I feel so undecided on many things, If I had one wish and ONLY one wish I would wish to see your smile and hear your laugh and hold you and tell you how fortunate I was to have you as my best friend and how much I appreciated you and everything you have been there and done for me...well I think I am getting ahead of myself here but I have one more thing to say before I go. and that is to your Mom, Marianne you asked me 3 months ago if I still think of Bernie and I told you yes, But I think you should know that there will never be a time that Bernie is not in my thoughts and in my heart, When you are REAL FRIENDS THROUGH AND THROUGH, It is impossible to forget someone you loved so dearly and if memory is all you have left in the end, YOU HOLD ON TO THAT WITH EVERY THING YOU GOT...So no matter what anyone says or thinks ever, I LOVED THAT MAN THROUGH AND THROUGH, IN GOOD AND BAD!!!! Till death did us part..So to answer that question I WILL NEVER FORGET BERNIE!!! He holds a place in my heart all its own and I have proved that time and time again, I Miss my best friend now and forever.
WITH LOVE AND FOREVER MEMORIES
I MISS YOU EVERYDAY
KIMI
Denise Benash
March 31, 2008
Well this weekend was your birthday and this weekend had your name written all over it. On Friday we all got together to celebrate your life and it turned out just the way it should've. Everyone that was important to you was there and about 100 kids.......lol....anyway, your mom and niece had a wonderful time and there wasn't a minute that your presence wasn't felt..... you will forever be in our hearts.
Saturday night we all got together and went to one of your favorite places.....Maximus........ anyway, it was a night that we will never forget......people were coming up to me all night remembering your life and generosity. Jenny Monico had nothing but wonderful things to say all night about you..... Happy Birthday Bernie you will never be forgotten and you will live with us and through us forever.......
Char Dawson (Yoways)
March 30, 2008
Bern,
I’m finally writing in your Guest Book to say “goodbye”. Even though we haven’t spoken in years I catch myself thinking about all of the crazy times that we had together, and am sad that they ended so quickly. Usually, the thoughts make me laugh out loud, or at least bring a smile to my face – as I’m sure they would to you if we were reminiscing. I remember that last Sunday that we spent together and the last time we really talked like it was yesterday. There are so many things in life that you had yet to experience. I hope you are resting in peace, forever remembering, and looking down on us.
My deepest sympathy to your family; especially, to your parents as they are experiencing pain that parents are not supposed to feel.
Jane (Gustafson) Majcherek
March 6, 2008
Dear Marianne and Bernie,
I am so sorry to have read the obit for your son in the newspaper. I meant to get in touch with you sooner but time goes by when you are a grandparent. I remember the time we all worked at National and your wedding. I didn't know you had a son together. Somehow we lost touch. I am so sorry for your loss. There are no words to say to to make the hurt go away. I just hope God will comfort you in your time of loss. Jane (Gustafson) Majcherek
Denise Benash
January 3, 2008
I don't even know why I am writing to this guest book again. It has been over 2 weeks and the holidays are finally over, but still I feel I have no closer.I miss you everyday. I miss the way you would call me during the day just to drive me crazy with some smart comment that you knew would get my blood pressure up..... and then laugh at me and tell me that I need to relax a little.....I miss not getting a phone call from you in the morning asking me how Kobe was getting off to school and then making sure that I was feeling ok and to have a good day. I miss you telling me how you would stop at McDonald's every morning for your iced coffee and would tell me how you picked up all the toys that Kobe didn't have for the sets. We always knew no matter what we could always count on each other. I am really trying to come to some type of forgiveness with God for taking you from everyone that loved you so much but I am finding that to be so difficult. I know that our close friends and family truly understood the relationship we shared. That is what made us, US..... I know that whenever someone would say your name people would automatically think of me, as they would do when someone said my name. We have so many memories Bernie and I may be selfish but I'm not ready for those to end. I can't walk into a store without seeing something that I know you would like, I can't turn on the radio without hearing a song that reminds me of you...... I will take you with me always, always........
Shirley Robinson
January 1, 2008
Bernie,my thoughts and memories of you as a little boy growing up and coming to visit us here in Florida will always remain dear to me. Not having seen you in many years and reading this guest book has made me realize you had grown to be wonderful loving person. You will be missed dearly. Our love and prayers to Marianne,Berend,Jody,Jimmy and Theresa. Jamie and Shirley (Schaafsma)Robinson.
Nicole Wilkie
December 21, 2007
Bernie-
Even though we have not seen or talked in many years you were and will always be a big part of our lives. You were the first friend of Wilkie's that I ever met and for that you will hold a very special place in my heart. You and Wilkie were two peas in a pod where ever Bernie was Wilkie was and that is going to be hard not to hear or see anymore. The two of you even had your own secret language that no one could understand but you and him, no matter how hard I tried to figure it out I never could.
Memories and pictures of you are what we have to hold on to and cherish forever. Even though I did not know you as long as everyone else you are what a true friend is and you will forever be in my heart and memories. We can't believe that you are gone but we know that you are safe and happy watching over us. You are our own special "Bern Dog guardian angel".
Wilkie wanted to remember you the only way he could so you will forever be a part of him tattooed over his heart, a place you will live forever in his heart and in mine.
Life will never be the same without you in it!! We love and miss you Bern Dog!!!!
MUCH LOVE BERN DOG!!!
Love always and forever,
Wilkie and Nicki Wilkie
Marianne and Bernie-
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during your time of need. I know that we haven't seen you for some time now but please don't let that stop you from calling us if you need anything at all. We love you guys.
Alexis Schumacher
December 20, 2007
Uncle Bernie,Ever since I found out that you were gone I have been sad.But then I was thinking about where you are now and noticed that its better than being here.If only you were here and I could hug you again it would be the best time of my life.But now I know that even if your not here your watching over me.I will never forget you because when I was little You were teaching me to do things.I will make sure kobe gets the same.I LOVE YOU SO MUCH.Hopefully I can get another one of your hugs again one day.LOVE YOU FOREVER AND EVER.
Lexi
Sarah Yost
December 20, 2007
I have so many memories of Bernie, dating back to high school. He was always around to make you feel better when you were down..and always had something witty to say.
He touched so many people's lives, in so many different ways.
Your family, and friends will miss you Bernie...
Kobe Bender
December 19, 2007
To my dada with love,
There are so many things that we did not get to do and so many things we will not get to say, but I want you to know that I will be ok. Mommy says that she will remind me of you everyday and your friends say that they will take good care of me. I want you to know how much I love you and I am going to miss you. But I know that you weren't ready to leave me. God must have needed you more than me. So I am giving you to God so that you can watch over me and everyone else that loves you. I could not have asked for a better daddy. You will stay with me forever. I want to thank you for being my daddy and teaching me how to ride a bike, play baseball, for teaching me how to swim and to rollerskate. Oh and for teaching me how to go potty!!!!! You are what daddy's are made of....I love you whole bunches dada..........
Love,
Kobe
xoxoxoxox
Stacie Ottens
December 19, 2007
Only a truly wonderful person could make such an impact on so many special people. Your memory will be carried on through your family, beautiful son and amazing friends. Everyone now knows they have a star in the sky and a remarkable angel looking down on them from above.
Amy Johns
December 19, 2007
Bernie, I just want you to know how much you are missed already. It has been three days since we said our last goodbye, and I cant help but think of all the great memories we shared, not only with myself but with everyone else.There wasnt a time you didnt make any of us laugh. I just want to let you know we all love you, and we will never forget you you will be a part of us till we meet again my friend. love you, Amy
Marianne & Family..
It is our job to do everything we can to help. Bernie would of wanted us to be there for you guys just like he was. If there is anything you need, just pick up the phone. You know where we are. And we will be there everytime you need us. Amy & friends..
Alexis Schumacher
December 18, 2007
Marianne,I'll Always love your son who was like a uncle too me.Uncle Bernie was very special to me because he was like another dad.He taught me how to roller skate and other things.Your like a Grandma too me, Your really more than that, your part of the family.Please tell the rest your of the family I love them too.The Sun Will Shine Again.Love Always
Lexi!
Brian Cornfield
December 18, 2007
It just wont be the same without you. That laugh, that smile, the kicks,,,just bernie being bernie!!
We will never let Kobe forget what a great " Dada" you were. You know all of us will make sure of that and i know you are looking down smiling upon all of us...To my guy,,Much love BERNDOG....
Denise Benash
December 18, 2007
My Dearest Bernie,
Words cannot explain what I am feeling inside.I am going to miss your laugh, your beautiful blue eyes, and that blond hair that made everyone notice you. You were my rock and I was yours, I'm just sorry I wasn't able to save you this time. I could go on and on about all the memories I have with you. You were my heart and you will stay there forever. My most wonderful memory that I have with you was the birth of our son and the look in your eyes when you held Kobe for the first time. The kids will never forget how wonderful you were and what a great dad you had become. You will forever be in my heart...... there will never be a day that I don't tell Kobe what a great dad he had and how much you loved him......I love you
Kimi Schumacher
December 18, 2007
My beloved friend, while I wait here patiently to see you again in my heart you dwell, You will be missed by us all so greatly, you werent just my friend Bern, You were the brother I never had... and until we meet again I will treasure the moments I was so greatly fortunate to share with you,I love you and I miss you now and everyday for the rest of my life and I know your watching over me everyday....Now rest in peace baby for until we meet again you are always in my heart and soul.....I LOVE YOU..
Marianne,Bernie,Theresa,Jodi, and Jimmy Anything you need you know I am here anytime..I Love You Guys. You are my family away from family.
MATTHEW "TURTLE" CORLIETO
December 18, 2007
GONNA MISS YOU BERN,FAMILY WILL MISS YOU.THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS BEING A GOOD FRIEND.OUR MEMORYS WILL NEVER FADE.
LOVE YOU BERN DOG.
Denise Benash
December 18, 2007
My dearest Bernie, there are no words that can describe what you meant to me. You were always my rock no matter what and I was yours. I will never forget your laugh, your eyes, and that blond hair that made you stand out. I could write forever all the memories that we have shared. But the memory I will remember most was the birth of our son, and how you looked when you held Kobe for the first time. I will never forget that and for that I thank you. You will forever be in my heart and the heart of the kids. Kobe will always know who is DA-DA was and with me you will live forever. I love you.....
PETER SCHAAFSMA
December 17, 2007
MY DEAR NEPHEW,I WISH DISTANCE HAD NOT PREVENTED US FROM KNOWING EACH OTHER BETTER .MAY GOD WATCH OVER YOU NOW.
Tina Weinberg
December 17, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Rhonda Beasley
December 16, 2007
Bernie,
You are greatly missed my friend. You gave so freely of yourself, your time, resources and love. Like you there is no other. It was great knowing you.
Marianne--You and your family are in my prayers. Keep in touch and give Kobe lots of loving for me.
Rhonda Beasley
Amy Johns
December 16, 2007
Bernie,
I am going to miss you so much. It hurts us we will no longer see you. Rest in peace my friend, you will be missed.
Marianne and Bernie, if you need anything dont hesitate to call us anytime. We love ya guys.
Dave & Amy Johns
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