Bernardine “Bernie” Mary Konieczka, aged 81, passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2024, in the loving arms of her husband and surrounded by her loved ones.
She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 64 years, Theodore A. Konieczka of Parker, Texas, and their cherished children, Keith Konieczka and wife, Hedi, of Chicago, Illinois; Gregory Jude Konieczka and wife, Pam, of River Falls, Wisconsin; Craig Bernard Konieczka and wife, Adriana, of Chicago, Illinois; Bernardine Harshman and husband, Martin, of Parker, Texas; grandchildren, Erik Konieczka and wife, Beatrice, of Chicago, Illinois; Christopher Konieczka and wife, Amber, of River Falls, Wisconsin; Brittany Konieczka of Dresser, Wisconsin; Kassidy Konieczka of River Falls, Wisconsin; Luke Konieczka of Chicago, Illinois; Rebecca Harshman of Little Elm, Texas, Bernardine Harshman of Parker, Texas, and Jessica Dolan and husband, Thomas, of Little Elm, Texas. She is also survived by great-grandchildren, Eliza Dolan and Beauden Konieczka; brother, James Elwood of Chicago, Illinois, and a host of other loving family and friends. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Bernie was preceded in death by her parents; grandsons, Anthony Konieczka and Charles Konieczka; and sister, Charlotte Berg
Bernardine was born on November 7, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Jerome and Bernice (Flick) Elwood. On February 13, 1960, she united in marriage with Theodore Anthony Konieczka in Chicago, Illinois, and over time welcomed 4 children into their home. Her husband felt she was “the Love of his life and the most caring and loving person he’d ever known, truly the best loving partner.”
Her children, son in law and daughters in law remember her as an extremely caring and devoted mother who would always be there to instruct, guide, and fiercely love them. She was involved in the Cub Scouts and was a Westlawn team mother for football and baseball through many years of her children's sports activities. She assisted with religious retreats for students at Maria High School.
Bernie was a devoted member of the Catholic church. She faithfully attended St. Wendelyn in Shannon, Illinois and later St. Jude Catholic Church in Allen, Texas. She was a member of St. Mary's Star of the Sea. Her faith played a central role in her life, and she loved to share it with anyone she could. She was a beloved Religious Education Teacher to many students. Throughout her journey, she embraced the values of faith, hope, and charity. She was the most charitable person you would ever meet. She vowed to be a soldier for Christ and fight the good fight!
Bernie received great joy, comfort, and unconditional love daily from her faithful companions Echo, Lily, Jet, and Xena who spent every day at her side along with her great grand puppies Buddy, Pepsi and Teddy Bear when they came to visit.
Bernie, Wife, Mom, Nana, Grandma, and Gigi left an enormous footprint in every life she encountered. So many people felt like she was their own mother and grandmother because she welcomed everyone into her life as if they were family. She was always loving, always helping others, and always giving of everything. She truly walked in God’s footprints as a witness to her faith and charitable works. She was the hands and feet of Jesus!
There will be a mass offered for Bernie on Friday, March 22,2024 @ 2 PM at St. Jude Catholic Church in Allen, Texas. A Celebration of life will follow at her home
6405 Northridge Pkwy
Parker, TX 75002
Mass cards and mass said in her name would be greatly appreciated.