Bernice M. Grothe, age 81, of Austin, died Monday evening May 9, 2011, at the Fieldcrest Care Center in Hayfield.

Bernice Midje was born April 12, 1930, in Austin, to Clarence and Julia (Stundahl) Midje. On May 1, 1949, she was united in marriage to Ronald Grothe at Oakland Lutheran Church.

As a lifelong Austin resident, Bernice worked for Woolworth’s for many years. She drove for seniors and disabled people, enjoyed flea markets and spending time taking care of neighbors and family.

Survivors include sons Jim (CoCo) Grothe of River Falls, Wis., and Wayne Grothe of Austin; four grandchildren Malinda, Dustin, Nathan and Jeff; 11 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Ronald, and son, John.

Memorial services will be held at Oakland Lutheran Church, rural Oakland, on Saturday, May 21, 2011, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. James Grothe officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment is in Hillcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family.

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.