Bernice “Bea” Van Tassel, age 90, sadly passed away following a short illness, April 7, 2024.
Bea was a Wisconsinite through and through. Born October 15, 1933, she was raised and went to school and lived her whole life in the great state of Wisconsin. At a young age, she went to work for the state of Wisconsin where she was eventually appointed the personal secretary for the Governor – then Senator of Wisconsin, Gaylord Nelson. Bea worked with many prominent politicians in the background that helped shape the state’s political party throughout the 60s and 70s.
Bea was a confident, flamboyant & outspoken lady who loved her family and friends. Bea was generous in both her time and contributions to the causes she believed in. She was a loyal advocate for her church, to various local veteran’s programs and to animal rescues and shelters.
Bea is survived by many nieces and nephews along with their families and many friends who will always remember her fondly.
Bea was preceded in death by her mother Amanda, her father Thurman and her brothers Edward and George.
A service celebrating Bea’s life will be held Thursday, May 2, 2024, 10:30 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 13083 E. Main Street, Pigeon Falls, WI. Family and friends are invited for visitation at the church from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Bea will be laid to rest beside her mother in the great state of Wisconsin that she loved.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in her honor to one of the charities Bea was so passionate about.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Sparta, WI, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
