Ruth Bernlitz

Ruth (Zeena) Bernlitz, 80, of Worcester passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 17, 2010, after a long illness. She was the daughter of Ralph and Alice (Orfalea) Zeena. Ruth leaves her husband of forty-nine years, Vincent Bernlitz; her sister, Helen Faucher and her husband Roger of Shrewsbury; two brothers, Robert Zeena of Worcester and Raymond Zeena and his wife Barbara of Fort Meyers, Florida; her sister in law, Elizabeth Zeena of Holden; two nieces, seven nephews, and several grandnieces and grandnephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Richard Zeena. Ruth will be missed by her many cousins, especially Jean Debs of Paxton and Gail O'Connell of Holden who were like sisters to her; several close friends, including Marion Davio and Kathy Brosnan both of Worcester. Ruth attended Worcester Public Schools. She was, for many years, a cashier and customer service representative for the A&P, Iandoli and Shaw's supermarkets. She was a member of Saint George Orthodox Cathedral and an active member and treasurer of their Women's Club. She devoted many hours of her time to working in the Cathedral's kitchen preparing food for the Church's special occasions and events. She most enjoyed her family and friends, a very special trip she took to the Middle East, summer vacations on Cape Cod, and frequent trips to Foxwoods. The family wishes to extend grateful appreciation to Dr. David Snook and Dr. Wendy Bergman for their compassionate care; and to Elder Services, The Visiting Nurses of Americare, and Affinity Hospice of Life for their kind assistance. Ruth's calling hours will be held on Saturday, February 20, from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. in Saint George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna Street, Worcester, followed immediately by her Funeral Service at 11 a.m. in the Cathedral. Interment will follow in Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Saint George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna Street, Worcester, MA 01604. MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, Worcester