Mrs. John R. Brush, formerly of Owatonna, Minnesota, had a gentle journey to rest eternally with her Heavenly Father and Savior on November 8, 2008 Berniece Bixby was born January 28, 1905 in St. Paul, Minnesota, but lived much of her life in Owatonna. She graduated from Owatonna High School in 1923 and was a city employee for nineteen years with the Owatonna Utility Company. In April 1946, Berniece married John R. Brush. They resided in St. Paul until retiring to Owatonna in 1967. Since 1996 Berniece has resided in Washington and Missouri to be near family. She is preceded in death by husband John R. Brush, stepson David Brush, daughter in-law Jewel Brush Miller, brother DeForest, and sisters Susie, Olive, and Helen. She is survived by three nieces and two nephews. Berniece has always been active in church activities as a church member, Sunday school teacher, and member of church women''s organizations. More recently she has participated in a Bible Study group and a prayer chain at her Missouri retirement facility. She is a life member of the Steele County Historical Society and former member of the Annatowa Literary Club. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 2 PM in Michaelson Funeral Home at 1930 Austin Road in Owatonna. The Reverend Brent Carlson of the Christ Community Covenant Church will be officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service in the funeral home. A private internment will be at the Forest Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Billy Graham Evangelical Association or the Owatonna Hospice. Visitation: 11/11/2008 13:00 11/11/2008 14:00 Service: 11/11/2008 14:00