Bernadette T. Gajewski, 95, Brown Deer, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Froedtert Menominee Falls Hospital.

Bernadette was an innovator from the beginning. She was the only child in her family to be born in a hospital. With money earned from working at Peplinski General Store and her sister Margaret's Ice Cream Shop, she took the bus from Pulaski to Green Bay to take modern dance lessons. She double majored at UW-La Crosse in Physical Education and Science and paid her way through school by working at Gundersen Hospital.

Bernadette taught in Soldier's Grove in Madison and at Taycheedah State Prison. In the late 60's she began her 26-year career of teaching physical education at Milwaukee public schools. After retiring she volunteered for different social service organizations that focused on women and children.

Her interests included metaphysics, buying and selling of collectibles, religious practices, studying Native American culture, listening to public radio, pursuing holistic health, and reading about a multitude of subjects. She also researched family genealogy. Her greatest contribution to making the world a better place was her loving kindness and compassion. She brought positive energy to her every encounter.

Bernadette is survived by her daughter, Debra (Kurt) Qureshi; her grandchildren, Danyal and Hannah; sister, Anita Mae (Ray) McCarville and countless nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Felix and Martina Gajewski, and siblings, Eugene, Lucian, Rita, and Margaret.

Friends are invited to gather with family at Assumption B.V.M. Church, Pulaski, 119 E. Pulaski St., Pulaski, Friday, January 12, from 9:30-11:00 a.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Fr. David Kobak, O.F.M. presiding. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

Her family would like to offer a special thank you to Janice, Sharon, and Jan for their loving care; they are a source of inspiration for others to pay it forward.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.marnochafuneralhome.com or on the Marnocha Funeral Home Facebook page.