Bernadine M. Chamberlain

Bernadine Marie Chamberlain passed away peacefully at Homestead Assisted Living on February 26, 2026, just one day before her 94th birthday. Bernie was born to Victor and Mary Gruba in Calumet City, Illinois. She and her six siblings were raised in a Polish Catholic family, in a home built by her father. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins were all close neighbors, who taught Bernie the importance of faith, family….and a sense of humor. Bernie loved to share stories of her childhood, which was filled with much joy and laughter.

Bernie married the love of her life, Richard Chamberlain, on April 19, 1952, and they enjoyed nearly 64 years together until his death in 2016. Bernie managed their home throughout their marriage. She followed Richard through years of service in the Marine Corps, the Chamber of Commerce and as a Deacon in the Catholic Church. Throughout their travels, she used her various skills and talents to ensure they always had a beautiful home wherever life took them. She was a fantastic seamstress, a master gardener and an amazing cook. Food was her love language and no visit to her home would be complete without her wanting to ensure you had something to eat…and once you finished your meal, she was ready to feed you again. Bernie was also a voracious reader and would love to share the stories she read before she started to dive into the next book. Above all else, Bernie could make people laugh, ignoring any filters and ready to break out in a dance while singing to Willie Nelson.

After the death of her husband Richard, Bernie and her dog Molly became inseparable, bringing each other years of love and happiness. She also found great joy in her final years with her companion Carl.

Bernie is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Barbara (Allan) Chamberlain-Goodman of Topeka, Kansas and Mrs. Cheryl (Edward) Gomez of Wichita, Kansas, and one son, Mr. Richard (Karla) Chamberlain of Shawnee, Kansas. Six grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren also survive. Bernie was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and an infant son, Richard, Jr, and grandson Craig Goodman.

The family wishes to thank the devoted caregivers at Homestead Assisted Living and Ascend Hospice for their extraordinary care, support and friendship to Bernie and our family.

Visitation will be held from 9-10:00 A.M., on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M., at the church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.