Bernadette Kay Ketterman

Bernadette Kay Ketterman, 65, of Westphalia, Texas, was called home to the Lord on October 5, 2025. She passed away peacefully after a brave journey with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on December 16, 1959 in Temple, Texas to Ewald Frei and Kathleen Jansing Frei. Growing up on the Frei family farm with her nine siblings, Bernadette learned the values of hard work, faith, and family. She was deeply proud of her upbringing and cherished the simple joys of farm life such as baking and homemaking alongside her mother and sisters, carrying these skills and traditions throughout her life. She attended Rosebud-Lott High School where she graduated with honors in 1978. While in high school, she participated in the Vocational Education program and worked at the D-Brown Memorial Library in Rosebud. After high school, she worked in the jewelry and make-up department at JCPenney in Temple. During this time, she met her soulmate and best friend, Gary Ketterman, and the two were married on June 20, 1981. Bernadette was a devoted wife, loyal and loving to her husband with whom she shared 44 years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and love. Their marriage was a true partnership and a reflection of the vows they so faithfully lived out. A woman of deep Catholic faith, Bernadette was an active member of the Church of the Visitation, where she was unwavering in her morals and belief in God. For over 30 years she taught first-grade religious education, helping children discover God’s love and laying the foundation for their lifelong faith. Her patience, kindness, and joyful spirit made her a beloved teacher to countless students and families. Known for her bright smile and contagious laughter, Bernadette’s life was a reflection of the joy and light she carried within. As a Mary-Kay Beauty Consultant for 39 years, she embraced her “Busy Bee” business theme—always buzzing with purpose, sharing encouragement, and helping others feel beautiful both inside and out. She loved her Mary-Kay customers dearly and cherished the friendships she built through her work. Her enthusiasm inspired everyone around her and she embodied the idea that true beauty shines from a joyful heart. Family was at the center of Bernadette’s life. Her children and grandchildren were the reason for living, next to loving God. To say she was proud of each of them is an understatement. She especially treasured her grandchildren, who brought her endless happiness. Known lovingly as “Mimi,” she made countless precious memories with them, especially during “Craft Days with Mimi,” where creativity, laughter, and love filled the room. She had a gift for making every holiday and birthday special, where her thoughtful touches made each celebration one to remember. Bernadette is survived by her devoted husband, Gary Ketterman; her children, Bryan Ketterman, (Kayla Vollmer Ketterman), Keith Ketterman, Michael Ketterman, (Melanie Cabla Ketterman), and Jennifer Ketterman; her grandchildren, Logan & Cam Ketterman, Evelyn & Noah Ketterman, and Kayson & Harper Ketterman; her siblings, Kenneth Frei (Eugenia), David Frei (Dorothy), Shirley Frei Polach (Johnny), Donald Frei (Joyce), Marilyn Frei Rudloff (Bradley), Gary Frei (Melissa); and many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ewald Frei and Kathleen Jansing Frei; siblings, Milton Frei (surviving Isabel), Glenard Frei (surviving Virginia), Thomas Frei (surviving Frances). The Rosary will be prayed at Cook-Gerngross-Green-Patterson Funeral Home on Monday, October 13, at 7:00 p.m. The funeral Mass celebrating her life and faith will be held at the Church of the Visitation (144 County Rd 3000, Lott, TX 76656) on October 14, 2025 at 10:00 A.M., with Father Darrell Kostiha presiding. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery at the Church of the Visitation. A meal will be held afterward at the Westphalia Parish Hall where family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance. Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Visitation’s Religious Education Program or the Westphalia Celebration Park. Her faith, laughter, and loyal love will continue to inspire all who knew her. Bernadette’s legacy will live on through every joyful memory and heartfelt prayer.