Loretta A. Bernier

Loretta A. (Iafrato) Bernier, 91, of Worcester, passed away, with her family at her bedside, on Monday, July 24, 2017, at Christopher House in Worcester.  Her husband, Eugene N. “Gene” Bernier, predeceased her in 2010. Loretta is survived by two daughters, Donna Murzycki and her husband Stephen of Worcester, and Denise Sliwoski and her husband Charles Jr. of Millbury; a sister, Congetta “Connie” DiBenedetto of Shrewsbury; four grandchildren, Jeffrey and Katie Sliwoski, Jason Murzycki and his wife Thu, and Nicholas Murzycki and his wife Elizabeth; a great grandson, Theodore; several nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by a brother and two sisters, Frank Iafrato, Rita Carpino, and on July 17, by Ann Umphrey.  Loretta was born in Worcester, daughter of the late, Angelo and Frances (Cirelli) Iafrato, and has lived here all her life. Loretta worked for the former Capital Footwear factory in Worcester, before retiring in 1984.  She had been a member of Saint Christopher Parish.  She enjoyed cooking and attending Dodge Park Day Program.  Her greatest joy could be found in the love she received from her grandchildren. Loretta’s family would like to thank all of the wonderful people at Christopher House for making her feel at home and comfortable through their kindness and compassion. A Calling Hour will be held on Friday, July 28, in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., at which time a short Prayer Service will begin.  Interment will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to The Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden Street, Worcester, MA 01606.