Bernice LaVerne Stinson Bales, 82, was called home to be with the Lord on October 6, 2008, in Lima Memorial Health System, Lima, Ohio. She was born in Northwood on November 7, 1925, a daughter of the late Emmet and Alma Laughlin Stinson. On January 25, 1947, she married Russell “Dick” Earl Bales in Lakeview and he preceded her in death March 6, 2007, after 60 years of marriage.
A 1943 graduate of Belle Center High School, she had a manager’s license in cosmetology. She was a beloved and devoted mother, grandmother and mother-in-law. She enjoyed her grown children as well as her grandchildren and loved working with crossword puzzles. One of the main joys of her life was her dog, Welby, who was her constant companion. She also loved living in Northwood where she raised her family in the same house where she was born and grew up.
She leaves to cherish her memory a daughter, Toni E. Bales of Pickerington; a son, Russell C. (Mary) Bales of Lima; two grandsons, Christopher Bales and Rusty Bales, both of Lima; as well as many good and special friends she has made over the years.
Pastor Bryan Meadows conducts the funeral service at 2 p.m. Friday, October 10, 2008, at the Eichholtz Funeral Home in Belle Center, where calling hours are from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society Serving Logan County 2521 N. U.S. Route 68 Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311