Bernice Ann Bendixen

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Bernice Ann (Neppl) Bendixen, the daughter of Henry and Mary (Snyder) Neppl was born on December 14, 1924 in Estherville, Iowa. A lifelong resident of Estherville, she passed away Friday, July 3, 2020 at the age of 95.

She received her education in the Emmet Consolidated School, graduating from High School in 1943.

On May 21, 1945 she was united in marriage to Leonard Bendixen at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Estherville by Father J.J. Keane. The couple made their home in Estherville for nearly 64 years together, raising their family here. Leonard passed away May 3, 2009.

Bernice worked with her husband part-time at Ben's Service Shop, later raising their family, then returning to work with Leonard until he retired in 1990.

They enjoyed many years of camping on weekends with friends and vacations with family. They continued to travel and camp after their family was grown.

Bernice was a lifetime member of St. Patrick's Parish, Catholic Daughters, Altar & Rosary Society, St. Patrick's quilting group, Rosewood Manor Auxiliary, and VFW Auxiliary.

Bernice is survived by her children: daughter Joann of Estherville, sons Duane (Merllene) of Fair Oaks, CA, David (Mary) of Urbandale IA, and Brian of Estherville. Four grandchildren: Sarah Bendixen of Fair Oaks, CA; Amanda (KC) Christensen of Sacramento, CA; Stacie Bendixen and Megan Bendixen of Urbandale IA. Four great grandchildren: Shayna Codie Bendixen of Fair Oaks, CA; J Tomis, Kayla Ann, Ty Danyl Christensen of Sacramento, CA. She is also survived by her sister Rita Mae (Neppl) Fox, sister-in-law Dorothy (Earl "Bud") Neppl, brothers-in-law Jerome (Ethel) Pohlen, and Joe Bendixen, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her husband Leonard, her parents Henry and Mary, brothers Isidore, Melvin, Earl "Bud", Gerald "Jerry", and sisters Florence (Cliff) Christensen, Lorraine (Roy) Kirchner, Ethel (Jerome) Pohlen. Brothers-in-law, Cliff Christensen, Roy Kirchner, Roy Fox; sisters-in-law Maxine (Isidore) Neppl-Leonard, Irene (Melvin) Neppl, Phyllis (Gerald) Neppl, Bernadette (Gerald) Neppl.

A private family service and burial at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Estherville will take place with a public memorial Mass and celebration of life to be held at a future date. The family wishes to thank Pearl Valley Rehab & Nursing and Good Samaritan Nursing Homes in Estherville for the wonderful care and love Bernice received.

If you wish to honor Bernice's life, cards can be mailed to (David L. Bendixen, 8210 Oakwood Dr, Urbandale IA 50322). The family asks memorial donations be made to either St. Patrick's Parish, Pearl Valley Rehab & Nursing, or Good Samaritan Society, all in Estherville.