Bernadette Louise Stewart

Bernadette Stewart, 95, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2026.

She was born on July 8, 1931, to Henry and Virginia Bock. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to serving others, building lasting friendships, and giving generously of her time and talents to her family and community.

Bernadette enjoyed a variety of professions from teaching fresh out of college to many years in retail sales, to taking on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. No matter the role, Bernadette brought enthusiasm and dedication to her work.

A lifelong learner with a wide range of interests, Bernadette enjoyed reading, attending the theater, keeping up with the news, and professional modeling in her youth. She also took fencing and taught ballroom dance, always willing to try something new. She especially treasured the friendships she formed throughout her life.

Bernadette was deeply committed to her community and faith. A member and longtime volunteer at St. Francis Catholic Church, she also gave many years of service to the Gladhander Auction. She served as a National Cherry Festival Ambassador for 25 years and was a member of Newcomers. Her willingness to help others extended beyond her volunteer work, as she was a loving caretaker to many throughout her life.

Above all else, Bernadette was dedicated to her family. She spent much of her time caregiving to both young and old. She treasured the time she spent with everyone, and the love she shared with them remained at the heart of her life.

She is survived by her brother John H. Bock, her children Michael (Amie) Shaw, Michelle (John) Pearson; her stepchildren, Keith (Beth) Stewart and Kimberly (Jane Maguire) Stewart; her grandchildren, Owen and Ethan Shaw, Jack (Kayla) Pearson and Caitlin (Maxwell) Bosley, Wesley Stewart, Rebecca (Irvin) Mechum, and Cameron Maguire Stewart; her great-grandchildren, Chloe Stewart, Irvin Mechum Jr. and Connor Mechum.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City. Bernadette will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan, on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, consider financial donations be made to French manor Terra, or Hospice of Michigan.