Bernice M. MacFarlane, 95, of West Bloomfield, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024, surrounded by her family. Born on March 14, 1929, to Alfred and Irene Behm in West Bloomfield, Wisconsin, Bernice was a shining example of resilience, faith, and the Midwest values of hard work, humility, and unconditional love.
Bernice married Wayne MacFarlane and together they built their home in Oshkosh.
Family meant everything to Bernice, she stayed closely connected to her many siblings and extended family, attending frequent gatherings, family reunions and monthly lunches that became a cherished tradition. Known for her lively personality and welcoming heart, she made friends wherever she went and could strike up a conversation with anyone.
Bernice was always on the move with her "get it done" attitude. She worked for many years at Miles Kimball and embraced an active retirement filled with her favorite pastimes, including card games, scratch-offs, mall walking, watching baseball and trips to the senior center.
Bernice was hands-on in everything she did, from building her home, to helping construct the family cabin "up north." That cabin became the heart of countless Wisconsin seasons, where her family created lasting memories, including: snowmobiling, cookouts and laughter around the fireplace.
Her adventurous side was evident in everything she did, from riding motorcycles across the country with Wayne to picking blackberries and soaking in the sights of the EAA fly-ins in Oshkosh. Her living room was always open to friends and family, with a hot cup of coffee and a warm smile waiting for anyone who stopped by.
Bernice is survived by her daughter, Pat MacFarlane; granddaughter, Michelle Alvarado; great-grandsons, Anthony (fiancé, Nadine Machkovech) Alvarado, Cory Alvarado and Bryce Alvarado; and great-great-grandchildren, Jaedah, Aidyn and Calum Alvarado. She is also survived by siblings, Dennis (Millie) Behm, Stanley Behm, Beverly (Gary) Gensler and Larry (Sherry) Behm; sisters-in-law, Barb and Joann Behm; brother-in-law, Tom (Ann) MacFarlane; and countless friends, nieces and nephews who adored her.
She is reunited in Heaven with her husband, Wayne MacFarlane; sister, Beatrice (Arthur) Schiller; brothers, Roger Behm, Alfred Behm Jr., Orville Behm, and Delmar Behm; sisters, Betty and Sandy Behm; son-in-law, Robbie Miller; and great-grandson, Gavyn Alvarado.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bernice's life on Friday, November 22, 2024, at Seefeld Funeral Home in Oshkosh. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed immediately by service.
In honor of Bernice, take a moment to enjoy the things she loved, a game of cards with friends, a family gathering or a good conversation over coffee. Her warmth, humor and zest for life will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew her.
Online condolences may be shared at
seefeldfuneralhome.com.Seefeld Funeral and Cremation Services
1025 Oregon Street
Oshkosh WI 54902
(920) 236-7750
Published by Oshkosh Herald from Nov. 15 to Dec. 14, 2024.