Bernice Katherine Polites

WASHINGTON ~ Katherine "Bernice" Polites, 97, of Washington, passed away at 9:02 a.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria.
Born on January 24, 1927 in Piper City to Henry and Katherine (Branz) Neding, she married Michael Polites March 2, 1948 in Peoria. He died January 20, 1991. She was also preceded in death by her parents; two sons, John Michael and Anthony Michael Polites and eight siblings.
Surviving are one daughter, Katherine (Stanley) Davidson, Sr.; five grandchildren, John Polites, Jr., Mathew (Stephanie) Polites, Stanley (Missy) Davidson, Jr., Kevin Polites and Lauren Bohannan; one step-granddaughter, Stephanie (Derrick) Holmes, five great-grandchildren, Gabby Davidson, Maddie Polites, Noah Polites, Isaac Polites and Ben Polites and one daughter in law, Pam Polites.
Throughout her life, Bernice had worked at Kroger, Mac Hy Market and Walgreens in the camera department. She had also worked at the Pekin Mall for 13 years, retiring in 1989.
She enjoyed working crosswords and jigsaw puzzles, playing bingo, gardening and making great pies. She always put her children and grandchildren first.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Washington Senior Living for the compassionate care she received over the last five years.
Bernice was a member of Creve Coeur Christian Church.
Her funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Creve Coeur. Pastor John Plunkett will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior at the funeral home. Burial will be at Springdale Cemetery in Peoria.
Memorial contributions may be given to Alzheimer's Association, Central Illinois Chapter, 614 West Glen Avenue, Peoria, Illinois 61614.
To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com