Elizabeth Kershner

Elizabeth Kershner, 58 of Bellaire, passed away suddenly, Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at McLaren Northern Michigan in Petoskey. She was born Nov. 19, 1958 in South Bend, IN, the daughter of Donald and Eleanor (Koste) Swardson. Beth lived her life dedicated to helping others. She was kind hearted and worked to improve the quality of life for many all around the world. She was an incredible cook and used her culinary skills to nurture and feed the souls of all she knew. Beth's inner light of beauty shown bright and was passed along to everyone she met. Beth loved to travel the world, especially spending time in Italy with her beloved extended family and friends. She was passionate and very involved with the Chicago Children's Choir, touching thousands of lives with her giving and generous heart. Beth believed in building bridges of peace and understanding though music and travel. Torch Lake was Beth's comfort and love, and where her heart called home. Surviving Beth are her fiancAC. and best friend, Alan Self of Boyne City, her longtime friend, Steve Kershner of Bellaire, and their children Ben (Cate) Kershner of Seattle, WA, and Hannah Kershner of Grand Rapids. Also surviving are her siblings Sue Wadlow and brother-in-law Mike Berra, and brother Eric (Jan) Swardson, Alan's children, Nikki (Russel) Howes of Katy, TX, Alli Self of Mt. Pleasant, Cooper Self of Petoskey, grandson Jordan Self of Katy, TX, beloved nieces and nephews Jessica, Cody, Alex, Kyle (Ami), Molly (Ryan), Brad (Amber), and Greg. Beth was loved by many, many friends and family all over the world. In the words of her Italian friends, "Oggi, c'e una nuova stella nel paradiso". Preceding her in death were her parents, her brother-in-law Ronald Kershner, first husband, Mark Roth, and Fr. Jim Fields. Private family services are being held at this time. The family would like to invite all who knew and loved Beth to come share a story, a hug, and beer, Sun. Dec. 18, from 5 to 8 pm at Short's Brewery. A Celebration of Life will be held summer of 2017 with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations in honor of Elizabeth Kershner, Attn: Madelaine Mooney, Chicago Children's Choir, 78 E. Washington St. 5th Floor, Chicago, IL 60602. Arrangements have been handled by the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.