Bernice Adamiak

Bernice Leona Adamiak, age 71, of Cottage Grove, went to heaven on Feb. 27, 2014, spending her last hours surrounded by the love and comfort of her family and friends. Bernice faced her courageous battle with cancer with strength and grace inspiring many how to live with faith, gratitude and joy. Bernice's kindness, determination, sparkling blue eyes, skillful dancing and love of celebrating life will be carried forward in the hearts of many.

Much loved by her children, Michelle (Douglas) Pryce, John (Tonya) Adamiak and James Adamiak; and grandchildren, Thomas, Myles, William, Ella and Andrew; siblings, Donald (Carol) Hesse, Bernie (Kathy) Hesse, Dick (Rose) Hesse, Bev (Dick) Lachenmayer, Walt Hesse, Gene Hesse and Sue Lyman; sister-in-law, Joy (Dwayne) Larson; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Preceded in death and welcomed into heaven by her husband, Richard and daughter, Marie Loretta; sisters, Mary Joe Hesse and Joan McDermott; and parents, Marie and Lloyd Hesse.

Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM, Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at The Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.

Bernice's family wishes to thank MOHPA Woodbury, Heartland Hospice and Baywood Home Care for their skillful and compassionate care. We are also grateful to her very dear group of friends, neighbors and the St. Rita Church community who greatly helped and supported Bernice during her long and inspiring journey.

"You can shed tears that she is gone,
or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that she'll come back,
or you can open your eyes and see all she's left.
Your heart can be empty because you can't see her,
or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember her only that she is gone,
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind,
be empty and turn your back.
Or you can do what she'd want:
smile, open your eyes, love and go on."

*We all love you and miss you
Forever in our hearts*