William J. Bernard “Jack”, 84 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday (October 30, 2024) at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Batavia, NY.
He was born September 28, 1940 in Batavia, NY, a son of the late William L. and Florence Dietschler Bernard.
Jack as he was profoundly known as, was a true Patriot. He was a proud Marine having served his country from 1958-1961. During that time he had the great honor and duty to protect and guard President Dwight D. Eisenhower and President John F. Kennedy throughout the country. After his service he was a professional mason and worked for companies in the area, and finally to work with the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Batavia prior to his retirement. During his retirement, he was proud and enjoyed his time as superintendent of the Hillside Cemetery in East Pembroke.
He was the husband of the late Norma Bernard who died August 23, 2024. Father of the late Shawn Bernard who died in 1996 and brother of the late Robert, James and Barry Bernard.
Survivors include his daughter Beth Ann Miller of Ohio. Son, Timothy Bernard of Ohio. Step-daughter, Debra Maniace of Batavia. Sister, Beverly (Paul) Kern of Batavia. Brothers, Dennis (Maria) Bernard of Florida, Allyn (Linda) Bernard of Oakfield and Richard (Maria) Bernard of North Carolina. Also survived by grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Monday (November 4th) from 10am-11am at the Cornerstone Church, 2583 Main St., East Pembroke, NY. A Funeral Service will follow visitation at 11am.
Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery, Corfu, NY.
Memorial contributions may be offered to the East Pembroke Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 50, East Pembroke, NY 14056 or Cornerstone Church, 2583 Main St., East Pembroke, NY 14056. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.
ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.