Bernice "Sandy" Vethacke

Bernice Esther "Sandy" Vethacke, age 98, of Sterling Heights (previously of Fraser), passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025. She was born on February 13, 1927 in Detroit to Arthur and Catherine Watkins
Sandy was raised on the east side of Detroit and graduated from Denby High School in the Class of 1945. After high school, she began her career with the State of Michigan Unemployment Commission. She later devoted many years to raising her family as a full-time homemaker, a role she embraced with love and dedication. Once her children were older, Sandy returned to the workforce as a skilled bookkeeper for several years.
Sandy had an independent spirit and an adventurous heart. She found great joy in traveling - exploring the beauty and culture of Europe, Asia and beyond. She was also an avid golfer in earlier years and enjoyed playing bridge with friends until just recently. She will be remembered for her warmth, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to those she loved and will be deeply missed.
Sandy is survived by her son Eric (Kathryn) Vethacke and daughter Lisa (Thomas) Breuer. She is further survived by her step-grandson, Derek Ryan, and her niece and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Herman Vethacke; her son, Paul Vethacke; and her siblings: Irene Watkins, Margaret Woitha, and Mildred DeMario.
A Funeral Mass for Sandy will be held on Saturday, July 19 at 12:00 noon (visitation at 11:30 a.m.) at St. Jane Frances De Chantal Catholic Church, 38750 Ryan Rd., Sterling Heights.
Inurnment will take place at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy at a later date.
Memorial contributions can be directed to St. Anne's Mead (www.stannesmead.org/give-now) or Hospice of Michigan (www.hom.org/donate).