Bernice Alfson of Binford, ND passed away at the home of her daughter on December 7, 2009 at the age of 96.

Bernice Valentine Sharpe was born on February 14, 1913 to Andrew and Jenna Sharpe in Shepherd, ND. She attended school in Glenfield and graduated from Cooperstown High School. She attended St. Olaf College, MN and graduated from Valley City Normal College in 1936. Before her marriage, she taught at Logi School in the Sheyenne River Valley as well as the Glenfield School where she also coached girls basketball. She married LeRoy Alfson on August 1, 1937. After their marriage, they farmed near Binford and taught school in Esterbrook, Verona, Hope, Willow Township, Clifford, Wimbleton, Sutton and Binford.

Bernice was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church at Binford. She enjoyed retirement with many of her friends over Bible study, quilting, ladies aid, bridge club and morning coffee. Bernice was an avid lover of all sports and attended as many sporting events as she could. One of her favorite places was Red Willow Lake where she spent time at family gatherings and reunions.

She will be missed for her strong Christian faith and gentle spirit. Knowing Jesus as her Savior gave her a loving attitude in life and served as a positive influence on her family and friends.

Bernice is survived by her children; Jerome (Karen) of Hillsboro, ND, Loren (Darlene) of Binford, ND, Beverly Pearson of Fargo, ND; daughter-in-law Valorie Alfson of Wyndmere, ND; ten grandchildren; Lisa (Jerome) Short, Sheri (Michael) Fischer, Cory (Jessica) Alfson, Tamara Alfson, Craig (Tiffany) Briss, Kristin (James) Lee, Jay (Wendy) Alfson, Lee Alfson, David (Keleigh) Pearson, Lori (Doug) Alfson-Heim; 18 great grandchildren; one sister Stella Cooley of Anchorage, AK, along with several nieces and nephews.

Bernice is preceded in death by her husband LeRoy, her son Rick, parents, sister Doris Bronaugh and brother Ira Sharpe.

Funeral Services will be Friday, December 11, 2009 at 11:00 AM in the Trinity Lutheran Church, Binford, ND. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 PM Thursday, December 10, 2009 in the Cooperstown Funeral Chapel with a prayer service at 7 PM. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services in the church. Interment will be in the Binford Cemetery. Arrangements with the Cooperstown Funeral Chapel.