Bernice May Hertel

Memorial service for Bernice Hertel will be at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church with Rev. Gene Zeller officiating. Burial will follow in the Gillette -Mt. Pisgah Cemetery.Bernice Mae Hertel age 89, wife, cherished mother, grandmother, and sister, peacefully passed away on June 27, 2025, in Gillette, WY, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on May 6, 1936, in McLaughlin, South Dakota, to Richard and Alvina (Giegle) Schaffer, Bernice was raised on a farm northeast of McLaughlin, where her roots in rural life began.As a young woman, she graduated from Wakpala High School and took her first steps into the working world at Em's Cafe. It was during these formative years that she met Willie Hertel, her devoted husband, whom she married on September 11, 1955. Together, they worked side by side on the family farm east of McLaughlin, cultivating not only crops but also a life filled with love and dedication. Willie and Bernice had six Children.In 1978, Bernice and her family embarked on a new chapter, moving to Gillette, WY. For two years, she worked as a housekeeper before finding her long-term calling with the Campbell County School District, where she served for an impressive 20 years before retiring in 2000. Bernice and Willie moved to Moorcroft before making her way back to Gillette in 2020, bringing with her a wealth of experiences and unforgettable memories.A woman of many talents and interests, Bernice found joy in cross stitch, quilting, and engaging her mind with crosswords and puzzles. Her creative spirit was a source of inspiration to her family and friends, and her dedication to her crafts reflected her loving nature.Bernice will be fondly remembered by her family, including her sons, Kenny (Shirley) Hertel, Danny Hertel, Loren (Bonnie) Hertel, and Larry (Brenda) Hertel, and daughter, Valerie (Ron) Sweeney and daughter-in-law, Mame Hertel. She was the proud grandmother of 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, along with 1 great-great-grandchild, with another arriving in November, a testament to the vibrant legacy she leaves behind. She is also survived by her brothers, Dennis (Barb) Schaffer, Bob Schaffer, and Gene Schaffer; her sister, Dian (Les) Sunberg; and her sisters-in-law, Sharlene Schaffer, Elnor Hertel, and Yoko Schaffer. Her spirit now joins that of her late husband, Willie, and her son, Gaylen, along with her beloved parents, several siblings, and her grandson Brady, who welcomed her with open arms. Bernice Mae Hertel's life was a journey defined by love, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to her family. As she departs this world, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience and compassion, forever living in the hearts of those she touched. A memorial has been established in Bernice’s name to benefit Hospice of Campbell County donations may be sent to Gillette Memorial Chapel 210 W. 5th St. Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be expressed at www.gillettememorialchapel.com