Bernice Dorothy Owens, 100

Bernice Dorothy Mais Owens passed away peacefully in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on Nov. 18, 2023.

Bernice was the youngest of four children born to Joseph and Eva Mais in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on Aug. 9, 1923. Yes, she lived to celebrate turning 100 years old this summer.

Bernice married Cecil Owens in Idaho Falls on July 7, 1946, and they were fortunate to celebrate their 45th anniversary before his passing in 1991. Together, they had four children: Colleen (Rose), Larry, Merrill, and Kathleen. Larry died unexpectedly on June 22, 2021.

While raising their children, they purchased a potato chip business, which they ran successfully until selling it and moving to Salt Lake City, Utah. Bernice had a sharp business mind and was instrumental in the success of Kitchen Queen Potato Chips and also helping the Salt Lake business thrive until she retired. 

In addition to being an avid flower gardener, she loved boating and spending time on the lake; she even learned to drive a jet ski at the age of 88. Bernice also enjoyed attending musical productions, taking the road less traveled in their RV, spending time with cherished friends and family, and volunteering. She especially liked helping children learn to read better, participating in civic activities like the polling process during elections, and actively volunteering in her church and community. Bernice was an expert quilter and sewist and produced many beautiful pieces during her life. 

Ten years ago, Bernice decided to move to Sandpoint to be closer to her family. She lived independently until the last two years of her life, where she was supported by family and eventually Pacifica Courtyard, an assisted living facility where she was cared for by loving caregivers and Gentiva Hospice providers until she passed. She had nine grandchildren; eight of them are still living, eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. 

Bernice's life certainly proved that it takes a village. The family would like to thank those dear souls who supported us in helping to keep her at home as well as the caregivers at Pacifica who looked after her so patiently and the hospice providers at Gentiva who made sure that she died peacefully and out of pain. In lieu of gifts, the family would like to suggest a donation be made to Gentiva Hospice which provided their exceptional care at no cost. 

The family will have private celebrations of life for her over the next year.