Bernice Melnick Zieben

Bernice Melnick Zieben passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by her children. Born in Houston on May 14, 1931, to Leon and Mariam Melnick, Bernice was part of the large and well-known Melnick family. She graduated from San Jacinto High School, and after World War II, met Eugene Zieben, who had followed his brother, Herbert, from New York to Houston. Bernice and Eugene were married on March 25, 1951, at Beth Jacob Synagogue by Rabbi Max Geller, and shared nearly 65 wonderful years together. They raised three sons — Barry (Bonnie), Perry (Kathy), and Marc (Morna). Bernice was blessed with nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, with another on the way. She was also privileged to witness six generations of her family during her lifetime. A loving, strong, and devoted mother, Bernice raised her sons in Westbury during the 1960s, always meeting the challenges of three energetic boys. She was gracious, warm, and outgoing, with a gift for making everyone feel welcome and well-fed. She was always there for her many nephews and nieces. Her devotion to family extended beyond her home, as she helped initiate the annual Melnick Family Reunion in Galveston in the early 1980s — a tradition that continues to this day and has kept her family uniquely close. Throughout her life, Bernice dedicated herself to charitable work, including active involvement with Hadassah, Meals on Wheels, and other organizations. She was a member of Congregation Beth Israel. She was an avid player of Mahjongg, Bingo, and other challenging games. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Mariam Melnick; her sisters, Rebecca Zucker, Ida Pollicoff, Pearl Pink, and Ethel Farris; her brother, Sammy Melnick; her niece, Marla Melnick; her nephew, Jeffrey Pollicoff; her grandson, Jacob Zieben; and her beloved husband, Eugene. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, September 16, at 11:30 AM at Beth Israel Memorial Gardens, 1101 Antoine Dr., Houston, Texas 77055, where Bernice will be laid to rest beside Eugene. The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Medallion — especially Marsha, Terri, Robin, Lettie, and the entire team — for the loving care and attention they gave Bernice during her final years and the team at Vitas Hospice for their incredible care. Bernice will be remembered for her strength, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Her legacy of love and togetherness will continue through the generations she so deeply cherished. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.

Bernice Melnick Zieben

May 14, 1931 - September 13, 2025