Memorial
Bernice E. Dvorak, 96, of Cedar Rapids went to her eternal home on Saturday January 20, 2018 at St. Luke’s Hospital. Memorial services will be at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday January 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church. Visitation at St. Mark’s from 1:00 p.m. until service time on Saturday.
Bernice was born on October 6, 1921 in Cedar Rapids, the daughter of William and Adeline Petrak Dvorak. She graduated from Shueyville High School in 1939, then worked for 7 years before attending York College in Nebraska. In 1950 she graduated with a B.A. in Sociology and Religion and worked at a church in Kansas until obtaining her Master of Religious Education degree in 1959. She then was a Director of Christian Education at 2 churches until 1968 when she was consecrated as a Diaconal Minister, assigned to the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church’s Women’s Division. She retired from this position 18 years later after supporting and advising churches in 21 states.
She returned to Cedar Rapids to retire near her family, volunteering at Meth-wick, where she lived, participating in activities at church, enjoying family gatherings, a good game of cards, and travelling throughout the world.
Bernice is survived by her sister, Martha Zach of Swisher; her four nephews: Larry (Marcia) Zach of Ankeny, Brad (Kathy) Colton of Marion, Glen (Trudy Haines) Colton of Ft. Collins, CO, and Keith (Norma) Colton of Cedar Rapids; and 10 great nieces and nephews; and one great-great nephew.
She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Lavona (Sandy) Colton, and nephews Rick Zach and Allen Zach.
Bernice lived her life following the example of Christ. She generously and humbly served others, showing love to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church or the Alzheimer’s Association in Bernice’s memory.