Richard M. Bernhard

Richard M. "Dick" Bernhard, 79, of Ft. Myers, Florida, long-time resident of Toledo, went home to be with his Lord, November 20, 2011.

During his Woodward H.S. days, he earned 13 varsity letters. He also attended the University of Toledo. Dick was later involved in many sports activities, including senior knothole, various union, church and business teams, including basketball, baseball and softball. He also coached and officiated Youth for Christ teams. Dick worked side-by-side with Larry Karakas, Christian Center Director for WPOS, for many of years. For 42 years, Dick served NW Ohio as a referee. Under his influence, three of his sons became officials working games with their dad. Dick began his "working career" at the age of 7 as a newsboy in downtown Toledo. Later, he made "The Toledo Blade" his life-long occupation. During the Korean War, he served his country as an Army Assistant-Chaplain.

Dick was well loved by everyone and saw the best in all people and situations His sense of humor and fun was endearing, especially to his grandchildren. During times of troubles or stress he would struggle a short time in prayer, then "give it up" to his Lord for solutions and inner peace.

He leaves behind his wife, Edna "Eddygrace"; children, Keith, Susie Spencer, Mark (Julie), Scott (Barbara), Sandi Nelson, John (Lisa); step-sons, Gary (Melanie) and Greg (Vivian) Shepler; 19 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Dick was the oldest of eight siblings, Clifford (Maryann), Clarence "Tiny" (Donna), Damaris "DeDe" Turski (Jim), Judy Rogacki, Marilyn Lee (Ron) and David (Linda). He also leaves many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death (2000) was his wife of 46 years, June Randall Bernhard and sister, Carolyn Sutter. June and Dick were long-time members of Westgate Chapel, where Dick faithfully served his Lord as Elder, Sunday school teacher, choir and board member and usher. After moving to Florida in 2002, he joined First Presbyterian where he and his wife "Eddygrace" served in music and as Deacons.

The family will receive guests on Wednesday from 2-8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300). A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at Heritage Church of God, 3520 Strayer Rd., Maumee. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to services at the church. Rev. Paul DeJong officiating. Burial at Toledo Memorial Park.

The family requests memorial donations may be made to Hope Hospice, 15000 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33908.

He was a great Dad and husband, a warm, wonderful human being and a terrific example for us all. His heritage will include passing on his heart of love and acceptance to all of us.