Friday, March 26, 2021, our beloved mom, Bernice Marie Franco, passed from this world to the gates of Heaven. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 5th from 4 to 7 PM with a Rosary Service at 6 PM at Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel in Scottsbluff. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Tuesday, April 6th at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Scottsbluff with Father Thomas Vijumon officiating. Interment will follow at the East Lawn Cemetery near Minatare. Online condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com
Bernice was born July 15, 1935 in Bridgeport, Nebraska to Rose and Ben Estrada. She received her education in the Bridgeport Schools. When she was in her 20’s she met Anicto Franco. From this union she had Elena, Edward, and Robert. Sometime later she gave birth to Matthew James.
Bernice made her home in Scottsbluff, raising all four of her kids as a single mom. She worked various jobs from a maid at the Park Motel and Scottsbluff Inn, to washing dishes at the Woodshed. During the summer she wasn’t afraid to tackle the beet fields. Later on, she decided to get her foot in the door in the medical field. She worked and studied hard to accomplish her CNA license, later working on her LPN license. She was proud of her accomplishments and worked in the nursing homes around the area until health issues forced her to retire.
Bernice loved music and was talented to play the piano by ear, she played guitar and took an interest in learning the harmonica. She loved her flowers, especially tulips. She had a huge heart for kids and whenever anybody needed help, food, or a place to stay, she would be there.
Bernice is survived by her children: Elena Simmons, Edward and Robin Franco, Robert and Deb Franco, and Matthew and Donna Franco; 9 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; four brothers; four sisters; and several extended family members.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, brothers: Frank, Tix, and Richard, and a sister Ruth Cruz.
