Bernice Ann Merta, 97, of Cedar Rapids, died Wednesday, April 22, 2020, in her home.  Celebration of Life services will be Livestreamed starting at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 27, 2020, on Brosh Chapel's Facebook page.  Friends and family are encouraged to view and leave a condolence during the service.  Burial will be in Czech National Cemetery.  Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre in Cedar Rapids is in charge of Bernice's arrangements.

Bernice was born November 11, 1922 in Cedar Rapids, the daughter of Frank J. and Libbie (Holets) Stastny.  She graduated from Wilson High School.  Bernice was united in marriage to Lumir "Fritz" Merta on March 16, 1946 at Hus Memorial Presbyterian Church.  Together they farmed for many years in the Fairfax area. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary, Elks, WFLA Lodge #500 – 13, and the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library.  Bernice enjoyed watching the Hawkeyes and the Cubs, socializing, playing cards, and spending time with her family, especially the grandchildren.  She was very independent, strong willed, determined, and was dearly loved by her family and friends.

Bernice is survived by her children Lee (Marrilyn) Merta, Lynne Derosiers and Laurie Smith; six grandchildren Roger (Michelle) Merta, Kimberlee Naber (Buddy Fenton), Corey, Kurt and Kyle Derosiers, and Deloren Smith; five great-grandchildren Samantha, Jessica, Andrew, Ashlee and Emery; two great-great-granddaughters Leigha and Emberlee; her sisters LaVerna Kulhavy and Betty Jean (Eldie) Svoboda; as well as her nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lumir, who died September 14, 2014, a brother-in-law Bill Kulhavy.

Memorials may be directed the VFW Auxiliary in her name.

Merta Celebration: https://vimeo.com/manage/412394657/general