Lillian Bernhagen

BERNHAGEN Lillian Bernhagen (nee: Flickinger), 96 years young of Worthington, OH, died February 17, 2013 at Kobacker House after a short illness. Born October 1, 1916 in Cleveland, OH to parents Norman H. and Bertha (Rogers) Flickinger. School nurse and director of health services the Worthington School District from 1951-1976. She retained her RN certification until her death. Attended Ohio Wesleyan Unviersity. Received a B.S. and R.N., and Masters from The Ohio State University. She has published numerous articles in professional journals and magazines. She developed a health education program for the Worthington Schools and published two sexuality booklets for teen. She received many awards including Centennial Award for School Nursing at OSU; Outstanding Alumnae OSU; Distinguished Service Award from the American Public Health Association as well as The American School Health Association where she served as President. She was recognized as one of The Two Thousand Women of Achievement in 1970; and appears in Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in the World; and most recently was recognized as a Local Nursing Legend by The Medical Heritage Center at OSU. As a national lecturer and consultant she served on many professional committees. She was an avid golfer active in the OSU Women’s Golf Association; she was a keen bridge player playing with her Chi Omega sisters as well as with the Worthington Women’s Club. She was a certified Holistic Coach advanced practitioner and served as the Managing editor and poet for “Self Growth Wisdom” (Journeys of Wisdom) up until the time of her death. She was a member of the King Avenue United Methodist Church since 1936 and sang in the choir for many, many years. She was famous for the annual choir Christmas party as well as her fabulous cooking and hostessing skills. Survived by daughters, Janet Proffitt (George), Jamestown, TN; Penny Braat (Jim), Avon Lake, OH. Also survived by sisters, Eunice Bonar (Dallas, TX) and Wanda Flickinger (Bronxville, NY). Preceded in death by husband Ralph; infant son Ralph; parents; sister Norma Poling; brother Judson Flickinger. There will be no visitation. A Memorial Celebration of Lillian’s Life Through Music will be held at The King Avenue United Methodist Church (corner of King and Neil, Columbus, Ohio), Tuesday, March 12th at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate any donation in her memory to Kobacker House, or Ohio Wesleyan University. Arrangements by RUTHERFORD-CORBIN FUNERAL HOME, 515 High Street, Worthington, Ohio 43085.