Bernice was born on July 29, 1925 to John and Rachel (Lecat) Van Doninck in Detroit, MI. After graduating from St. Bernard’s, Bernice attended Detroit Commercial College.
In 1945, Bernice met William Knodell at a friend’s wedding. The two were inseparable from that point on and married October 26, 1946, at St. John Berchman Catholic Church in Detroit. Bill and Bernice were married for over 53 years.
Bernice was a full-time mom and fiercely dedicated to her children. Bill and Bernice were founding members, active and faithful participants of St. Peter Catholic Church in Harper Woods, MI, St. Matthew Catholic Church in Detroit, MI and St. Paul of Tarsus Catholic Church in Clinton Township, MI. Bernice loved to travel, was an avid golfer and bowler, was well-read, enjoyed movies and music, and had a keen eye for art and culture. Bernice supported many charitable causes during her lifetime.
Bernice was predeceased by her husband, parents, brother Mark (Patricia) and daughter Laura (Paul). She is survived by her remaining five children, Bill (Annie), Anne (Larry), Jane (Al), Monique (Darryl) and Mark (Susan), 15 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was the last of her generation, a true matriarch and the hole left by her death will be impossible to fill.
A Memorial Mass for Bernice will take place January 30, 2023, at St. Michael's Catholic Church located at 40501 Hayes Rd., Clinton Township, Michigan 48313. Instate at 9:00am with mass to follow at 9:30am.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bernice’s name to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Wounded Warriors or Pewabic Pottery.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kaul-funeral.com for the Knodell family.
