Bernice "Lair" Whitler

Bernice “Lair” Whitler, 93, of Evansville, IN passed away Friday, March 22, 2019 at University Healthcare. Bernice was born June 27, 1925 in Monticello, KY. Bernice worked as a welder during WWII on the LST’s in the Evansville shipyards. She later worked at EVSC, Mac’s BBQ and Hardees. Bernice was preceded in death by her husband, Edward H. Whitler, Sr.; a son, Kevin Whitler; brothers, Wilmont, Junior, and Everett; and sister, Ruby Bonke. Surviving are daughters, Sharlene Nelson (Larry) and Phyllis Baker both of Houston, TX; sons, Charles (Marilyn) of Bradenton, FL, Edward (Carole), Ralph, and Keith (Ginger) all of Evansville, IN; seven grandchildren, Jamie Baker Patterson, Staci Whitler Freytag, Katie, Clint, Chad, Cameron and Chase Whitler; seven great grandchildren; a brother, Rankin Lair, and sisters, Marteen Montgomery and Lorraine “Lair” York. Visitation will be on Sunday, March 24, 2019 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Alexander East Funeral Home on Lincoln Ave, Evansville, IN. A private family graveside burial will be held on Monday at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Saint Joseph Auxiliary at University Healthcare, 1236 Lincoln Ave, Evansville, IN 47714.