Elsie Bernice Thimlar, 91, of Royal Center passed away peacefully at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2016, at her residence where she resided for over 67 years.

Born on Dec. 21, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Alfred and Elsie (Sparks) Moon. She was a 1943 Star City High School graduate. On Oct. 30, 1949, she married James Riley Thimlar. He preceded her in death on March 4, 1991.

Bernice was formerly employed at Logansport Flying Service where she became the first lady pilot of Cass County. She was also formerly employed at the headquarters for Flying Farmers in Indianapolis and for Roscoe Turner at Weir Cook Municipal Airport before her marriage to her loving husband. Bernice enjoyed spending time with her family and going out to eat.

Survivors include her children: Rylene Stein, Fla.; Jeanie (Dave) Margheim, Colo.; John Matthew Thimlar, Royal Center; James Mark Thimlar, Royal Center; and Bernadene (David) Thimlar, Royal Center; sisters: Delight Kandl, Wis.; Barbara Kellough, Kokomo; Norma Lee Krone, Fla.; grandchildren: Andrew (Lara) Mason; Tyler Stein; Amy Margheim; Rachel (Tom) Henry; Derek (Jessica) Scott; Brock (Ashli) Scott; and Riley (Courtney) Thimlar. She is also survived by ten great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by grandson: Adam Margheim; brother: Philip Moon; and sisters: Twila Lowry Jones; and Mabel Holman.

Visitation will be from 3-6 p.m. Sunday, May 15, at Harrison-Metzger-Rans Funeral Home, Royal Center Chapel. Private graveside services will be at Royal Center Cemetery.