LaVera I. Bessel Bernhardt, 97, was transported into the hands of her Lord, on Sept. 30, 2011, from St. Luke Living Center, Marion.

LaVera was born July 1, 1914, in Durham, the daughter of John and Rose Lorenz Bessel. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ezra Bernhardt. She is survived by a sister, Evelyn Ollenberger (Leslie) of Salina; nieces Sydney Teeter (Wayne) of San Diego, Calif; and Rosemary Hawver (Jerry) of Charlotte, N.C.; and many nieces and nephews on the Bernhardt side of the family.

LaVera lived her adult life in Marion County, where she was an avid quilter and gardener, wonderful friend, professional drapery maker, and gifted cook and baker. She was dedicated in faith and service to Eastmoor United Methodist Church.

She was devoted to her husband and was a supportive wife while he farmed, in his various business endeavors, and as Sheriff of Marion County for many terms. She lived in the home she and Ezra built from 1949 until 2009. She was gentle and kind, a hard worker, a caring friend and neighbor and a loving wife, sister and aunt.

Visitation with family was Sunday at Zeiner Funeral Home, Marion. A funeral was Monday, at Eastmoor United Methodist Church in Marion. Interment was in the Marion Cemetery.

Memorial funds have been established for Eastmoor United Methodist Church, Hospice Care of Kansas, or St. Luke Living Center in care of Zeiner Funeral Home, 205 Elm, Marion, KS, 66861.