Bernice Schwarz
Time period/Baraboo: 1940 - 2001
Submitted by: Robert T. O’Brien, Sr.
Bernice Schwarz began her journey in farming, community services and business at a young age. Bernice excelled and built her business skills and purchased “The Gift House on the Square”. She so graciously helped others to select the perfect gifts. The gits were always wrapped so beautiful and topped with a handmade bow.
Bernice had a great love for the Baraboo area. She volunteered over 3,000 hours at the St. Clare Hospital Auxiliary gift shop.
Her love of cooking led to helping St. John’s Parish where no job was too big to tackle.
Bernice was an avid gardener. She had a very large flower garden and small green house where she grew special plants. She was lovingly referred to as the “African Violet Lady”.
Bernice’s heart was always with those in need or had less. Her gift to the Al. Ringling Theatre, St. John’s Parish, and St. Clare Hospital makes us proud and makes us humble.