Bernadette Hughes

Born on October 31, 1937 and proudly raised in Litchfield, MN, died on December 1, 2024 after living a beautiful and inspiring life built on a foundation of love, Catholic faith, family, and friends. Bernie was the daughter of Peter and Mary (Connole) Foss and sister to nine siblings (Mary Anne, Peter, Joe, Tom, John, Terry, Ted, Claire, Marty). She loved her siblings very much and cherished her many lifelong friendships. Bernie was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Frank, and their son, Steve. She is survived by seven loving children Dan (Josephine), Mike (Kristin), Paul (Angie), Nate (Elizabeth), Jake (Lily), Sarah, and Joe (Isabel); by 20 grandchildren (Ben, Jane, Matt, Anna, Katie, Caroline, Gabby, Chris, Joe, Michael, Kathryn, Mary, Sarah, August, Vivian, Zoe, Penelope, Markos, Dominic, Maya); by her sister, Claire (Merle) Bauer; by four sisters-in-law (Joyce, Linda, Gloria, Marie); and by her many nieces, nephews and cousins. Bernie was valedictorian of her high school class and a distinguished graduate of St. Catherine University (class of 1959). She cherished the education, experiences and friends she gained during her time at St. Kate’s and became a long-time resident of St Paul, living 53 years at our family home on Lombard Avenue. Bernie will be remembered for her advocacy and caregiving for her disabled children (Steve and Sarah), including lovingly caring for them at home well into her 80s. She will always be remembered for the many gifts she brought us, including her intelligence, her calming and welcoming spirit, and especially her humor, wit and charm. Never afraid to go against the grain to do what is right, Bernie showed how rewarding a simple and faith driven life can be. We love you, Mom, and are forever grateful for having you as our mother. Visitation will be held at Willwerscheid Funeral Home on December 9th from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The funeral will be at 11:00 a.m. on December 10th at Saint Thomas More Catholic Church in Saint Paul, (visitation from 10:00 until 11:00 before the funeral). In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to St. Thomas More Catholic Church (www.morecommunity.org).