Hannah Limtiaco
I have been remembering Bernice this today and thought I would share memories here. I was the neighbor kid that both Bernice and her husband Ed loved. Hannah. The Chase’s were my best friends and the closest thing to real family when I was a kid. Where do I begin with the memories? Do I skim? I practically lived at the house. I ran over there almost every day. Bernice and I would play board games, do crossword puzzles, draw, and talk up the world. There were many mornings I snuck over to have breakfast before school. Ed would often drive me so I wouldn’t have to walk, and Bernice and I would wave at each other until we couldn’t see each other anymore. They were both there at my birthday celebrations and key times in my life. I’d play at the house and spend quality time with both of them. I used to sit on the foot rest of her rocking chair so I could be close to her. Many evening visits were spent sitting together and watching TV, sharing funny or lovely thoughts that came to mind, or just holding hands and being present. She was a loving and nurturing friend who was like family to me. Bernice was selfless and so giving, and thoughtful. She would fix holes in clothes, sewing, she’d fix up my hair over again, and even helped me with my spelling and writing. She helped take care of my needs and never forgot my birthday. She encouraged me to always do my best in all things and be my best. There wasn’t a mean bone in her. She was so loving. After Ed died we were there for each other as much as we could be. She said I had her and she had me and that we’d get through it together, and we did. My happiest memories were there with her. I miss her so much.