Bernice M., age 86, of Hayward died Thursday, July 5, 2012, at Water's Edge Care Center in Hayward.

Bernice Marie was born November 9, 1925 in Hayward, the daughter of Steven and Pauline (Barnash) Karwoski. She grew up and graduated high school in Hayward. On March 15, 1944 Bernice was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Harold Laakson. She spent her life raising her family. In later years she worked at Arcadia Lodge cooking and cleaning, and also for Heinmann's Resort where she retired from in 1990.

She is survived by her sons Harold (Colleen) Laakson of IL, and Leslie Laakson, Donald Laakson, Gunnard (Stephanie) Laakson, all of Hayward; daughters Carolyn (Bob) Rescino of IL and Janet (Howard) Appleby of MN; 10 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; brothers Zigmont, Stanley; sisters Kay and Anna.

Bernice was preceded in death by her husband Harold; son Robert; brothers Steve, John, Tony, Theodore; sisters Marion, Babe and Rose.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 9, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hayward. Father Philip Juza will officiate with music provided by Deanna Lancaster and Rebecca Iverson. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Hayward. Visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. prior to the service on Monday at the church.

Casket Bearers will be Lil' Donnie Fairfield, Scott Laakson, Jason Laakson, Brian Laakson, Christopher Laakson, Adam Laakson and Jacob Laakson.