Brandie Lee (Benson) Bernatowicz Obituary (1983 - 2024)

Brandie Lee (Benson) Bernatowicz, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024, leaving behind a beautiful legacy. Born on October 12, 1983, to Mike Benson Sr. and the late Sally Brigham Benson, Brandie was a lifelong resident of Harborcreek Township, where she embraced the orange and black Huskie pride. She pursued her education at Mercyhurst University, earning both a bachelor's degree in accounting and a master's degree in organizational leadership. Brandie made her mark as a Laker on the softball field as a phenomenal third baseman. She started her professional career at Country Fair, Saint Vincent Health Center, and Enormis Mobile Specialties. For the past decade, she found her home at Barnhart Transportation where she served as Senior Vice President of Accounting and Finance, leaving a lasting legacy to work hard and play harder. She married her high school sweetheart, Benjamin Bernatowicz, where they started her life in her grandparent's homestead. The two were blessed with two beautiful boys: Brendan and Blake Bernatowicz. With a passion for living life to the fullest, "The 4 Bs", as a family, made beautiful memories crabbing on the shores on the Atlantic, sitting around the many campfires, and cheering on her beloved Black and Gold Pittsburgh Steelers. Brandie's fiery spirit came out when she was matside supporting her boys, "the Banshees" during a Ragin' Raisins wrestling match. Brandie's competitive spirit was evident in every challenge she faced. Despite her straightforward nature, she had a unique ability to make people feel special and included. Brandie's generosity knew no bounds, always the first to contribute to those in need. She played a pivotal role in establishing the 501c3 organization, Barnhart Gives, helping raise over $200,000 for local charities through planning various charity events. Besides Brandie's husband, sons, and father, she is also remembered by her brothers: Mike Benson Jr. (Wendy) and Andrew Benson; as well as in-laws: Fred and Marylou Bernatowicz; brother-in-law, Nick (Michelle) Bernatowicz; her nieces and nephews: Cooper and Aurora Benson, and Joey and Amelia Bernatowicz. Brandie is further survived by her aunts and uncles: Phil (Maggie) Benson, Skip Brigham, Peg (Don) Williams, Barb Miller, and Jackie (Bob) Cattell. Additionally, she leaves behind many cousins and friends who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sally; and grandparents: Frank and Joan Brigham and Jack and Ruth Benson. Family and friends are warmly invited to call at the Dusckas-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 5151 Buffalo Rd. (at Hannon Rd. in Harborcreek Twp.) on Friday, January 26th, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM and are further invited to attend a funeral service there on Saturday at 11 AM. Memorials may be made to the "The 4Bs Educational Fund" in care of the Erie Bank, 5723 Buffalo Rd., Harborcreek, PA 16421.