Obituary of Bernice Clara Dodds

Mrs. Bernice Clara Dodds, 91, formerly of Palatine Bridge, New York passed away, Monday, September 24, 2018 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Bernice was born on March 8, 1927 in Gloversville, NY, she was the daughter of Victor Putman and Marion Christman Putman.  She grew up on the family farm in Stone Arabia with her brothers and sisters. 

Bernice was a devoted and nurturing mother of one daughter. Bernice resided in Florida for the past 8 years, living with her daughter until poor health required the care of a nursing home.  She became acclimated to the city life of Fort Lauderdale, but always longed to return to friends and family in Canajoharie.  

During her high school years at Fonda High School she participated in many activities and clubs.  She was part of the cast in the senior play, class secretary and editor-in-chief of 2 school publications.  She graduated with the honor of Salutatorian in 1944 and entered training in the US Cadet Nurse training program in Amsterdam with additional training in NYC.

Bernice worked for Beech-Nut and LifeSavers in Canajoharie before her retirement. 

Bernice was active with the Ladies Aid of Salem Evangelical Church in Stone Arabia where she especially enjoyed quilting and sewing projects.

Bernice was very interested in the needs of others and supported many charities with special interest in children and animals.  Her other interests included cooking, gardening and plants, swimming, accounting and crossword puzzles.

Her sisters, Dorothy Saltsman, Anna Nellis; brothers, Elmer Putman, and Gordon Putman predeceased her.

Mrs. Dodds is survived by her daughter, Anita Dodds of Fort Lauderdale, FL; sister, Margaret Steffenhagen of Palatine Bridge; as well as several nieces, and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at 2:00pm at The Chapel of Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, Inc., 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY.  The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday from 1:00-2:00pm at the funeral home.  Burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Fonda.