Bernidine Ellen Essick

Bernidine Ellen (Hoff) Essick, 89, of Pottstown, PA, passed away on April 10, 2025, at Rittenhouse Village at Muhlenberg. She was the wife of the late Edward Essick, with whom she shared 38 years of marriage before his passing on March 6, 2010.
Born in Pottsville, PA, on June 22, 1935, Bernidine was the daughter of the late Clair Hoff and Mary (Reed) Hoff Erb.
Bernidine worked as a nurse aide for Pennhurst State School and Hospital for many years, a role she spoke of often and with great affection. She truly enjoyed caring for her patients and took pride in the meaningful connections she formed with them during her time there. Her compassionate spirit extended beyond her work-she had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and found great joy in their companionship. Above all, Bernidine cherished time spent with her family, creating lasting memories filled with laughter, love, and togetherness.
Bernidine is lovingly remembered by her children, Verna Yost, Donna (Thomas Donkin) Hodges, and Edward (Deborah) Essick; her grandchildren, Guy (Sarah) Hodges Jr., Danna (David) Yerkes, Nikki Harrington, and Tanna Essick; her great-grandchildren, Syndell (Caleb Godles) Gabriel, Guy Hodges III, Jacey Yerkes, Grant Yerkes, and Brandon Harrington; and her siblings, Edwina (Paul) Fekete and Scott (Ann) Hoff. She also leaves behind her two cats, Meesha and Lucky.
In addition to her husband and parents, Bernidine was predeceased by her granddaughter, Shannon Essick; her sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and William Schiel; and her two stepsisters.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Highland Memorial Park, 701 Farmington Ave., Pottstown, PA 19464.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bernidine's memory to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County or Humane Pennsylvania.
Houck & Gofus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 955 N. Charlotte St., Pottstown, PA 19464, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be shared online at www.houckgofusfuneralhome.com.