In Memory of

Patricia

A.

Berning

(nee

Passmore)

Obituary for Patricia A. Berning (nee Passmore)

Patricia Ann Berning, 81, of Cincinnati, Ohio passed away on February 20, 2024, in Cincinnati. Born on May 3rd, 1942, in Cincinnati. Pat dedicated her life to her family and to serving others. She was the epitome of love, compassion, and strength, leaving an enduring legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched.

As a devoted wife, Pat was the heart and soul of her marriage, standing by her beloved Jim. Their love was a testament to the power of commitment and partnership, weathering life's storms with grace and resilience. Together, they shared a bond forged in love and faith, nurturing a relationship that served as role models to all who knew them.

In addition to her role as a devoted wife, Pat was a beloved mother to Kevin, Mark, Brian, and Greg, a cherished grandmother, a loyal friend, and a dedicated servant to God. Her life was a tapestry of love and service, woven with threads of compassion, kindness, and unwavering faith. "She was always there for everyone, it seemed like she was everywhere at once. She never missed anything, always there to congratulate and give praise. She made everyone feel special."

Pat Berning graduated from Good Samaritan nursing school in 1963. Pat, along with 2 other long standing oncology nurses from Good Sam, opened the First Outpatient Oncology Unit on "5 West" at Good Sam hospital in November 1982. Later on, Pat went on to become the 1st oncology educator at Good Samaritan. Over 40 + years, Pat Berning taught so many nurses how to be incredible, smart, and compassionate oncology nurses. She helped forge oncology care in Cincinnati and at TriHealth. She helped shape and influence so many nurses to further their nursing careers and do amazing work.

Patti was the first person many of us called when they had a question, or needed advice, or just a shoulder to cry on. She now has the 1st plaque on the Team Member Wall of Honor at Good Samaritan hospital. Her plaque reads, "Pat has transformed oncology care at GSH. A mentor, teacher, nurse, and friend. Pat impacted and influenced countless lives."

Beyond her professional endeavors, Pat was also dedicated to helping those less fortunate, spreading love and hope to communities near and far. Her work in this area was fueled by her unwavering faith and commitment to service. As President for Friends of Batahola, she built many strong relationships with her Nicaruguan brothers and sisters and enjoyed leading local teams of students and church members on immersion trips to Nicaruagua to promote mutual understanding, cultural appreciation and support, linking the two twinning communities. These visitors included her husband Jim and five of their grandchildren.

Though Pat may no longer walk among us, her spirit will live on in the memories and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her. She will be deeply missed and always lovingly remembered.

Pat is preceded in death by parents Ginny and Charlie Passmore and Granddaughter Tiffany Smith. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Jim L. Berning, her four children, Kevin Berning (Hope), Mark Berning (Francie), Brian Berning (Christy), Greg Berning, as well as ten grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Pat is also survived by her sister Pam Venable (Chuck), niece Erin Mollaun (Tod), and her best friend Carol Litkenhaus.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Batahola, in honor of Pat Berning's legacy of love, compassion, and service. You can mail donations to The Friends of Batahola P.O. Box 36159 Cincinnati, OH 45236 OR online https://friendsofbatahola.org/donate-page/

A funeral mass and celebration of Pat's life will be held on Saturday, March 2nd at Bellarmine Chapel 3801 St Francis Xavier Way, Cincinnati, OH 45207. Visitation will be from 10:00 11:00, Mass will be from 11:00 12:00 with reception immediately following, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and share stories of her remarkable life. All are welcome