Novi Woman 'Did Not Deserve' Tragic Death, Friends Say

Bernice Irene Schaufele, of Novi, died at 84 last week. 

Police found her in her Novi home, in the Country Place condominium complex, after receiving a 911 call regarding an unresponsive woman. An autopsy determined Schaufele died from asphyxia and stabbing. An ex-convict, on parole for manslaughter, is currently facing charges for Schaufele's homicide. 

Unsurprisingly, her tragic death shook the community. Friends and neighbors expressed their sympathies and sadness online via Novi's O'Brien-Sullivan Funeral Home, where the family arranged her visitation and funeral service. 

"The feelings I have over this are hard to explain. There is so much rage but also sorrow. Bernice was the sweet little old lady, that you FULLY expected to continue to live a healthy, happy life, until she one day passed in her sleep. Because of that reason, it makes this death even harder. Bernice did NOT deserve this," wrote one of Schaufele's friends on the funeral home's tribute wall.

Her friends described her as the sweetest, kindest woman and a person in great physical and mental condition for her age. Others who didn't know her but also lived in the Country Place condominium complex shared their condolences as well. 

Schaufele was the wife of her late husband, Ray, the mother of Sharon Schaufele and Kim Lukacs and sister to John Dickey and Jackie Guvevsky. She leaves behind three grandchildren — Brandon, Evan and Aaron.

Those interested in giving in her memory can donate to The Crime Victim Foundation, an organization that helps victims of crimes in Michigan.

Did you know Schaufele? Share your memories of her or your condolences to her family and friends in a comment below.