Berna Steelhammer

Berna E. (McKenzie) Steelhammer

April 12, 1923

July 10, 2016

Berna Elaine (McKenzie) Steelhammer passed away in Reno, NV, after a lengthy illness, on July 10, 2016. She was born to Cecil and Velda (Huston) McKenzie in her Grandmother’s home in Prineville, and lived in the Powell Butte/Prineville area all of her life, with the exception of her final years, when she moved to Nevada to be closer to her daughter. She was 93.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, brother, Dale, as well as an infant son, William McKenzie Steelhammer.

She is survived by her daughter, Velda (Dave) Hage of Reno; nephew, Dan (Jill) Steelhammer, and their children, Henry, Tom and Molly, of Bend; Grandson Michael (Antionette) Hage and Great-granddaughters Makenzie and Aubrey of Oakdale, CA.  She is also survived by a host of cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends, all of whom she cared for deeply.

Berna was a home maker and worked in various jobs, including the Extension Office during World War II. She and Bill farmed and ranched in Powell Butte for many years.

Always a ‘people person’ Berna loved children, and enjoyed family and friends visiting their home, and feeding the calves or lambs.  She was a wonderful baker, and enjoyed interior decorating and crafts.

Berna and Bill were chosen as Grand Marshalls of the Crooked River Rodeo in 1990, the first couple and Berna, the first woman, ever to be so honored.  She was a life-long member of the Bridge Club, an activity she greatly enjoyed.

Arrangements are in the care of the Prineville Funeral Home.  Graveside services will be held at Juniper Haven Cemetery on Tuesday, July 19^th, at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at the home of Dan and Jill Steelhammer, in Bend. Donations in Berna’s can be made to our local Hospice of your choosing.

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