Berenice Gertrude Hamill

Berenice Bailey Hamill, 91, of Mattawan, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2012. Berenice was born July 19, 1920 to L. Ward and Daphne Bailey of Schoolcraft. She was a graduate of Portage Central High School and Western Michigan University where she earned her Masters in Education. Berenice was a high school business teacher and began her teaching career in Cassopolis, Michigan. On August 1, 1942 she married Kenneth Hamill and moved to Miami Florida where Ken was serving in the Navy. Following the completion of her husband's tour of duty, Berenice and Ken returned to Michigan and teaching, first in Richland and finally at Comstock High School. Berenice gave 100% to her students and enjoyed the friendships she shared with her colleagues. She retired in 1979 and moved back to Florida where she enjoyed golf, making new friends and walking outside on sunny days with her sisters. After her husband's death, Berenice returned to Michigan to be close to her cherished family and friends. Berenice was preceded in death by her parents, three siblings (Florence Penchoen, Arthur Bailey, Dorothy Lundy) a niece (Karen Lundy), and her husband. She leaves behind, to treasure her memories, a daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Tom Stell, a beloved granddaughter, Bailey Stell, her sister Ione Ambrose (Haydn), and several wonderful nieces and nephews. Funeral Services to celebrate Berenice's life will be at 11 AM Wednesday, July 11th at Unity Church of Kalamazoo, 1204 Whites Road. Reverend Jeanne Kucks will officiate and the service will be followed by a luncheon at the church. Those desiring to make memorial contributions are asked to consider; Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, Big Brothers of Kalamazoo and Unity Church of Kalamazoo. If you wish, share a favorite memory at www.avinkcremation.com.