Bernadine Harris-Smith

Bernadine "Bunny" Harris-Smith, 87, of Sarasota, Fla., formerly of Cape Girardeau, passed away peacefully Monday, Dec. 3, 2007, in Sarasota, with her sons by her side.

Survivors include three sons, Jerome A. Bartinikas Jr., Thomas E. Bartinikas and Dale L. Harris; a grandson, Christopher Harris; a daughter-in-law, Cathleen Bartinikas; the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Dale E. Smith.

Born Bernadine Marie Vogt Jan. 31, 1920, in Ste. Genevieve, Mo., she was the only child of the late Bernard Vogt and Marie Jokerst. She was raised by her mother, Marie, and stepfather, Ernest Lorts, and educated in St. Louis.

She married Jerome Bartinikas Sr. in 1937 and had two sons, Jerome and Thomas. In 1947 she married Gene Harris and had a son, Dale. It was after she met Gene that she moved to Cape Girardeau. She raised her family, made many friends and became an active member of the community.

Bunny was a member of St. Vincent's Catholic Church, a charter member of Wayside Garden Club and longtime member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority.

She had a rich and varied career, including a radio show on KGMO Radio, a catering business and work in designer clothing and ladies ready-to-wear at Oglander's and Hecht's Too.

Later in life she met Dale E. Smith. They married in 1990. They spent many happy years together entertaining friends, attending sporting events, fishing and traveling.

Bunny will be missed and remembered for her sweet spirit and love of family and friends.

A private ceremony with interment will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery.

A memorial service will be announced and held at a later date.

Announcement courtesy of Ford and Sons Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, Fla., 34238.

Sympathy messages may be sent to dlh107@comcast.net or Dale Harris, 1400 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota, Fla., 34239.