Bernice Audrey Kalepp

1935-2025

Bernice Audrey Kalepp, aged 90, of Medford, passed peacefully into eternal life at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, surrounded by family. A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Medford (W5334 Dassow Ave). Rev. Ralph Shorey officiated. Family and friends were welcome for a visitation at the church beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at the church. Interment followed a lunch at Christ Lutheran Cemetery in Abbotsford. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford was entrusted with the arrangements.

Bernice was born on Jan. 29, 1935, the daughter of Clarence and Margaret (Bremer) Kalepp in Dorchester. She attended and graduated from Abbotsford High School.

Bernice lived a life rooted in purpose, faith, and quiet strength. Her time was spent working on a family-owned fish farm that also tapped maple syrup in the winter and sold trees year-round. She embraced the rhythm of the seasons and never shied away from challenging work, whether it meant early mornings or long days outdoors.

She was known for her fierce independence, tireless work ethic, and steady devotion to her family, community, and faith.

A natural teacher, she shared her gifts with others in many ways—as a Girl Scout leader for several years, a music teacher and an instructor of guitar. Her love of music stayed with her throughout her life, and she sang in the church choir as a faithful and joyful act of worship.

Creative and hands-on, she found joy in gardening, crafting, and making wreaths—each project a reflection of her resourceful and artistic spirit. She was especially proud to be a Wisconsin Master Gardener, a title that reflected not only her expertise but also her deep connection to the land and her love for nurturing life. She also had a deep love for animals, treating them with gentleness and care, whether they were family pets or farm companions.

She had a strong appreciation for the outdoors and a competitive spirit to match. She loved to hunt with her father and became a Wisconsin Professional Archery Champion, earning trophies that stood as a testament to her focus, discipline, and skill. She carried that same strength and determination into every part of her life.

Bernice is survived by her four children, Tim (Jeannine) Paddock of Bakersfield, Calif., Sandie Brooks of Medford, Sherilyn (Bryant) Clayton of Green Bay and Darwin (Sara) Paddock of Dorchester; along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Bonnie Polzin; her brother, Lloyd Kalepp; and an infant brother, Eugene.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.

Paid Obituary 170729