Bernice “Skip” M. Nielsen

(Nee Frey), born October 1, 1924, carried away by the Angels while surrounded by her loving sons, Monday, January 22, 2018 at the age of 93. Incredibly caring mother of the late Judith, Thomas (loving long-time caregiver), & Ronald (Susan). Grandma of Dan & Katie, great-grandma of Alexis & Aaron. Sister of the late Clara, the late Harvey, and Lucille. Aunt of the late Carol, Dan, & John, great-aunt of Natalie. Cherished friend of the late Elmer Burdick and Sarah Frandle, whose compassion & caring were unmatched. Loved by many other valued relatives & friends. Many thanks to Jose Oscar Toledo, MD for his exceptional care. Many thanks as well to Kathy Czarnecki at Family Caregiver Support Network for her very kind assistance.

Heaven gained a truly wonderful woman who shall be missed beyond any words. Skip dedicated herself to her children and her Catholic Faith. She sadly missed her lifelong goal of reaching 100. Especially proud of being a professional roller skater as a young adult, traveling the Midwest with skating partner Willard. She retired from her dream job at National Business Furniture in 1993.

Mom was very proud of being a graduate of Girl’s Tech – Class of 1942. They graduated their last class in 1955, yet still have an active Alumni Association today. Skip remained a member and we provided occasional updates on her life for their newsletter.

Skip was always a hard worker. She enjoyed a variety of jobs over her many years. Among the more notable – she often talked about her early days at “the Electric Company” (Wisconsin Electric). Their scheduling made it possible for her to work there and also travel doing her roller skating shows.

She was also very fond of her considerable time as the school secretary of Saint Philip Neri Catholic Grade School. Both Tom and Ron graduated from SPN. Mom also developed a deep respect for the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary, many of whom taught at Saint Philip Neri.

Skip was magnificent at making the most of life, no matter what stage or what limitations she faced.  Earlier, besides her skating, she had a long-time love of sports and especially loved bowling, both on leagues and individually.  She enjoyed the relaxation of cards and especially Sheepshead.

Many of her friends will always remember her as a person who never missed the opportunity to have a party and make people happy.  She was a big fan of Bingo and would try her hand at slot machines on occasion.  She loved animals and always missed the companionship of her dogs Brandi and Sasha and our first bunny Peter (but more bunnies would follow).

In later years, Skip adapted to change and enjoyed things inside her home.  She loved to watch old TV shows and movies from the 40’s, 50’s, and beyond with Tom.  She always appreciated music and Tom made sure favorites were readily available on her stereo.  Skip had a wide selection of magazines to enjoy.  She truly appreciated just being alive and cherished every moment.

Visitation at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Visitation continues Thursday, February 8, 2018 at Christ King Parish, 2604 North Swan Boulevard, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM. Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM. Procession to Schoenstatt Sisters Shrine, 5310 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Prayer Service following Mass. Private interment Holy Cross Cemetery.