Bernice Mary Rukamp

Bernice Mary Rukamp (Jadin), 82, passed on to her eternal home surrounded by her loving family on December 2, 2021. Bernice was born April 2, 1939 in New Franken, Wisconsin to the late Edward and Tillie (Vincent) Jadin. Bernice graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy. She then met the love of her life, Clarence Henry Rukamp; together they were happily married for 53 years. Bernice worked as a banking associate at Kellogg’s Bank and later cleaned houses with friend Diane. She raised their four children which was her most important job. Bernice was a loving wife, mother, grandma, great-grandmother, sister and friend. Bernice is now at peace after the challenges associated with dialysis treatment for 11 years and other health issues. Bernice rejoins her beloved husband Clarence, family and friends at the gates of Heaven. As years went by Bernice and Clarence celebrated the birth of their 9 grandchildren. Together, they loved watching them grow and play sports, dance and perform in musical concerts. They were always so proud of the many things the children enjoyed; it delighted them both.

Bernice was loved by her 4 children and their families: Keith (Carolyn) Rukamp, Gail (Robert) Sweeney, Lisa (Douglas) Downham, Kevin (Laura) Rukamp; 9 grandchildren: Nickolas (Josie) Rukamp, Melissa (Curtis) Walt, Brent (Emily) Rukamp, Caitlin Sweeney, Kyle Sweeney, Samantha (Andy) Moczydlowski, Alexander (Maria) Downham, Lucas Rukamp, Connor Rukamp; 6 great-grandchildren: Lillian, Charlotte, Alayna, Henry, Elliot and Carter. She is also survived by her siblings: Norbert (Joan) Jadin, Gerald (Sandy) Jadin, Donna (John) Daniels, Linda (Larry) Puyleart; brother and sisters-in-law Shirley Baye, Betty (Lloyd) Daul, Dorothy Thompson, Dennis (Mary Kay) Rukamp, Leroy (Diane) Rukamp, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Bernice was preceded in death by her husband Clarence, parents, Brother Sam Jadin, Brothers-in-law: Cletus Rukamp, Jerome Rukamp and Jim Thompson as well as a sister-in-law Lou Rukamp.

Family and friends may visit at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N Webster Ave, De Pere, on Wednesday, December 8, from 4-7:30pm. A parish prayer service will conclude the evening. Visitation will continue on Thursday at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church, 312 Victoria Street, Green Bay, from 9:30am until 10:45am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am with Fr. Bill Hoffman officiating. Entombment will be in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Chapel Mausoleum.

Bernice’s family extends a special thank you to the caring staff at St. Vincent Dialysis Center and Allouez Sunrise Village.