Lorna Kanitz
Lorna Kanitz, matriarch of 5 generations, died Sept. 6, 2014 while under the care of Ministry Home Care Hospice at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill. She was 96.
Lorna was born on Oct. 6, 1917 to the late Arthur Krueger and Selma Sabatke. She married Elmer Berndt on June 24, 1936. He preceded her in death on Nov. 5, 1972. Lorna married Alfred Kanitz on Dec. 11, 1976. He preceded her in death in 2002.
Lorna was one of the first two women hired at Northern Door Corporation and worked there for many years. She enjoyed dancing and was a member of the Polka Club, the Mission Circle of Ladies Aid, and the Red Hats.
She is survived by her children: daughter, Judy (Layne) Jensen, Merrill; son Tom (Julie) Berndt, Tampa, FL.; three step-children: Cheryl Kanitz (Scott), Merrill, Pam Hamilton, Appleton, Alfred “Buddy” Kanitz Jr.; two grandchildren: Daniel (Lynn) Jensen, Jilayne (Donald) Radtke, of Merrill; four great grandchildren: Jess Jensen, Barb Schult, Gena Radtke, and Matthew Radtke; five great-great grandchildren, two step grandchildren, three step great grandchildren, and many other relatives and foster children.
She was preceded in death by three sisters: Esther Thiel, Violet Hass, and Evelyn Prast.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at St Stephens United Church of Christ, the Rev. Kyle Carnes officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 9-11 a.m. Burial to follow in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Cemetery.
Special thank you to Hospice and Pine Crest Nursing Home for your kindness and compassion.
Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com