Bernice "Marie" Brkljack

Bernice Marie Brkljack, age 98, of Savanna, IL, passed away in her home on October 18, 2025. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, October 25, at Savanna First Presbyterian Church. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., prior to the service. Burial will follow at Savanna Spring Lake Cemetery.

Bernice was born March 18, 1927, in Savanna, the daughter of Clarence and Bernice (Clay) Johns. Since she shared the same name as her mother, she went by her middle name, Marie, which continued her entire life.

Born and raised in Savanna, Marie graduated with the Class of 1945 from Savanna High School. Though she had plans to pursue college, she selflessly chose to stay home to care for her ailing mother and younger siblings—a decision that reflected the deep compassion and devotion that defined her life.

During those early years, Marie balanced her work at Engels Jewelry with the care she provided to her mother and siblings. Her mother, though ever-thankful of Marie’s efforts, would often tell her that she hoped she could find a husband and experience the life she deserved. It wasn’t long before her mother’s untimely passing, an event that would forever shape Marie. For the first time she began to look outwardly, and stumbled upon her next chapter. On November 3, 1951, she married the love of her life, Stephen Brkljack. Together, they embarked on many adventures, traveling often in the early years of their marriage before settling down to raise a family. Their journey took them from Savanna, where Stephen worked at the Army Depot, to Dubuque, where he joined the railroad, and ultimately back to Savanna, the town they cherished most.

Marie was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church and an active participant in the Savanna Women’s Club, Girl Scouts, and the Illinois State Extension Homemakers. Her life was a testament to service and community.

She found joy in the simple pleasures—gardening both flowers and vegetables, puzzle books and word searches, refinishing furniture, and reading. Gardening was her sanctuary, a quiet retreat when she needed time to herself. Her cooking and baking were legendary, not just for their taste but for the love they carried. One humorous family favorite: her son-in-law’s long-held belief that her pie crusts were homemade, when in fact, they were store-bought.

Marie cherished Sunday drives, especially those that led to family visits. The Johns family reunions every August were a highlight, filled with laughter, stories, and togetherness. She had a rare gift: never speaking ill of others, always choosing to see the beauty in people and the world around her. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marie is survived by her three children, LouAnn (Tom) Hoskins, of Bettendorf, IA, David (Kathy) Brkljack, of Fulton, IL, and Mary Kay (Steve) Maines, of Charlotte, NC; five grandchildren; and one great grandchild. She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Bernice; her husband, Stephen; brother, Jason Johns; sisters, Joyce, Lois, Rene, Betty Jo, and Phillis; as well as numerous aunts and uncles.