Bernice Joyce Christiansen, age 91, of Cecil, was reunited with her husband Orville on Wednesday, November 6, 2019. Bernice was born on January 12, 1928, in Kelly Lake, WI, to the late Samuel and Mary (Miller) Brazeau.  She graduated from Gillett High School and was a lifetime resident of that area.  Bernice was united in marriage to Orville "Orv" Christiansen on September 27, 1947, at Christ Lutheran Church – Hintz.  Together the couple raised a son, foster daughter and loved being a part of raising their grandsons.  She was a nurse and worked at the hospitals in Shawano and Oconto Falls, the Oconto Falls nursing home and the Gillett nursing home, in which she retired from there after many years of service.  She was also a member of the Gillett Joint Rescue Squad for many years.  As a child, Bernice learned to play piano.  She went on to playing the organ in church for many years.  She loved to play the organ with a group of dear friends just for the love of playing the organ.  She continued playing the organ until this past August.  Bernice was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in Shawano.  She was a member of Dorcas Circle, enjoyed being involved in ongoing bible studies and deeply devoted to her Lord, who was always with her.  She loved to bake and always brought the best desserts for holidays and family get-togethers.  She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, sewing, gardening, watching the birds, reading and pizza.  She gave many gifts of her handiwork to family, friends and to the church for various ministries.  She will be truly missed by everyone who knew her.

Bernice is survived by; a son, James (Bonnie) Christiansen; foster daughter, Debra (Terry) Hansen; grandsons, Brad and Ryan Christiansen; a precious great-granddaughter, Sienna; sister-in-law, Alberta Brazeau and a dear neighbor, Rob. She is further survived by many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by: her loving husband, Orville; her parents; sisters, Agnes "Ag" Milchner, Verona "Ronnie" Carlson, and Jean Roberts; one brother, Lyle "Buck" Brazeau and sister-in-law, Bernice "Bernie" Lambrecht.

A memorial service for Bernice will be held on Sunday, November 17, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Shawano with Rev. Scott Ludford officiating.  Visitation will be held at the church on Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

The family of Bernice would like to thank every member of the staff at the Cottages for the exceptional care given to her while she was there. It was Amazing!  She was always well taken care of, comfortable and safe.  She was surrounded by Angels.  We will be forever grateful.