Bernice Midje Grothe, 81, of Austin, died Monday evening May 9, 2011, at the Fieldcrest Care Center in Hayfield.

Bernice was born April 12, 1930, in Austin to Clarence and Julia (Stundahl) Midje. On May 1, 1949, she was united in marriage to Ronald Grothe at Oakland Lutheran Church.

As a lifelong Austin resident, Bernice worked for Woolworth’s for many years. She drove for seniors and disabled people, enjoyed flea markets and spending time taking care of neighbors and family.

Survivors include sons: Jim (CoCo) Grothe, River Falls, Wis., and Wayne Grothe, Austin; four grandchildren: Malinda, Dustin, Nathan, Jeff; 11 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ronald, and son, John.

Memorial services will be held at Oakland Lutheran Church, rural Oakland, Minn., 11 a.m. Saturday, May 21, with the Rev. James Grothe officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment is in Hillcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family.

Worlein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.