It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Lorene Marie Houser-Bernatowicz. She passed away peacefully at the age of 70 on July 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with metastatic bone cancer. In Lieu of flowers, food or gifts, the family is asking for donations to help support The Celebration of Life Event. The remaining proceeds will be donated to Komen Race For The Cure Foundation, a cherished foundation of Lorene’s.

Lorene, a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord. Her unwavering strength, infectious joy, and unshakable faith will forever be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Lorene was born on November 29, 1954, and throughout her life, she exemplified the grace and kindness that defined her spirit. A proud Lutheran Christian, she lived each day in service to her family, her community, and her faith. Her love for God and her devotion to her family were evident in every aspect of her life, and she was an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to witness her journey.

As a wife, Lorene was a steadfast partner and a true pillar of support to her husband, Tony. Together, they shared 46 years of love, laughter, and unwavering loyalty. As a mother, she provided a safe haven of unconditional love and wisdom to her children, Randy, Tina, April, and Nick, teaching them the values of kindness, compassion, and resilience. As a sister, she was a true companion and friend, the person you wanted in your corner for life’s challenges.

In her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother, Lorene was nothing short of extraordinary. Known to her grandchildren as “Grandma Rene or Grammy and GG to her great grandkids,” she showered them with affection, wisdom, and joy, creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come. Her legacy of love and warmth will live on through them.

Despite her ongoing battle with cancer, Lorene remained a beacon of hope and joy to all around her. Her love for life never wavered, and she continued to embrace the beauty of the world, particularly through her love for Christmas, travel, music, and wine. Whether she was collecting new Santa’s to decorate her home with during the holidays, exploring new places, enjoying a glass of wine with family and friends, or humming along to her favorite tunes, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her zest for adventure was contagious, and her presence brightened every room she entered.

A woman of great faith, Lorene was an active member of The Community of Grace Lutheran Church where she found strength and solace in her spiritual community. She lived by the words of Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and her trust in the Lord was evident even in her most challenging moments.

Lorene is survived by her husband, Anthony (Tony) Bernatowicz , her children, Randy, Tina, April, Nick, Daughter in-laws Brandy and Britne, Son in-laws Dan and Steve, and her beloved grandchildren, Kaylin, Joseph, Brandon, Taylor, Giovanni, Chase, Kendall, Dane, Kylie and great grandchildren, Easton and Emma; her brother Gerry and sister Teri; along with many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Though she is no longer with us, the love and joy Lorene shared will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. She fought a brave fight, and her memory will live on forever, a testament to her strength, her love, and her unwavering faith