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Community pays tribute to Bernice Blecha. . .

OSMOND — The community of Osmond was saddened this week to learn of the death of Bernice Blecha, former Osmond city clerk and editor emeritus of the Osmond Republican. Bernice had some health issues in the past few years and, in the weeks before her death Saturday, her health took a turn for the worse.

Last week, it was suggested that she and husband, Don — “the man behind the woman” — should be recognized for their many contributions to the city and to the community of Osmond. Mayor James Bessmer has proclaimed Friday, Jan. 18, as Bernice and Don Blecha Day.

The following is a list of just some of the things Bernice — and in many cases, Don — has been involved in through the years: Osmond Republican, 1962-2018; City of Osmond, secretary from 1970 to 1997 and city clerk from 1997 to 2017; Osmond Community Club, St. Mary’s Church, Summerfest, Osmond Alumni Committee, Osmond Hospital Auxiliary and Q125 Committee.

Regina Lorenz, editor of the Republican, said, “As I’m sure many others in this community can say, Bernice Blecha has had quite an impact on my life. When I started my career here at the Osmond Republican almost 30 years ago, she was the one who taught me everything she knew, from how to run one of the old typesetting machines to how to write a newspaper article. She has been my mentor, boss and friend.

“As I was talking with Jim Schmit about putting together an article, which has now become a tribute, I made the comment that this is something that I would normally ask Bernice how to do. And there have been many times in the past few months that I needed advice related to the newspaper, and Bernice, the person I would normally ask, has not been around to ask. I have relied so much on her expertise, and really miss it!”

A number of friends and former co-workers have also commented on Bernice and Don’s impact on their lives.

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Thirty years ago, Jacquie and I made a decision that truly has changed our lives. We left the family farm and moved into Osmond. We built Willow Way Bed & Breakfast. For the next 20 years, we provided lodging for people wanting to stay in Osmond. It was an experience we truly enjoyed. We had the privilege of meeting people from Osmond as well as guests from all over the world. This note is to tell you about one of these special people from here in Osmond that has made a difference in our lives. Her name is Bernice Blecha. She has always been active in improving our community with her work in her church, our town and our Community Club. She made our town a place we can be proud of. Thank you, Bernice, for all you have done to make our town a place we can be very proud of. — Your friends always, Norm and Jacquie Lorenz

Dear Don and Bernice, it has been a pleasure to work alongside of you guys in some of our community activities. You are an inspiration for young people and everyone, for that matter. Your dedication, love and sacrifice of your time is a prime example of the cornerstone of this great community! Thank you and God bless! — Jim and Deb Schmit

I started working for the City of Osmond in 2002 and Bernice has been my mentor ever since. I don’t think I ever came up with a question that stumped her. I just wish I had all the knowledge in my head that she had in hers! I also want to thank her for all her years of public service for both the City of Osmond and the Osmond Community Club. Both Don and Bernice were working at every event! — Cindy Hoffman

Dear Bernice: Just saying “thank you” is never enough for your kindness and dedication. Your thoughtfulness will always be remembered. — Doug and Barb Johnson

Bernice and Don: Every community needs a “Bernice and Don.” Osmond has been very fortunate to have had them. My hope is that someone will step up to take their place. — Ron Aschoff

Don and Bernice: What a privilege to have worked with both of you in many ways! No one was ever a stranger. Both of you made everyone feel welcomed! May you continue to be blessed in many ways! — Missy and Ed Hoppe

Don and Bernice Blecha, friends through thick and thin, one of the best advertisements for Osmond that could be found! — Charles Sukup

Dear Don and Bernice: You two are simply amazing! I have learned so much from you two. All your time, knowledge, dedication, years. . . we can’t thank you enough! I have enjoyed all our visits. And you two always welcome me with huge smiles and open arms. You two have become “family” to me. You put your heart and soul into all you do, and we will be forever grateful to have you in our community. So many wonderful moments and memories are because of you! Thank you, Don and Bernice! — Much love, Kayla and Terry Hoffman and Kids

Don and Bernice Blecha have unselfishly given of their time and talents for the Osmond community.  We humbly say “thank you.” — Steve, Beth and Bryan Manzer

Sorry to hear about Bernice.  She played a vital role in the community for such a long time and will be missed. — Dave Hamm

Nobody was better! — Dennis Collins, Jewell and Collins, Osmond City Attorney

Thank you for all of the times you helped us out for things we needed to know about church. Your smile and your kindness meant a lot to us. — Bonnie Schmit and Marlin Schmit

 

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