BERNARD MEYERS, age 82, of Sagamore Hills, passed away peacefully on April 12, after living with Parkinson's disease for over 20 years.

Born and raised in Garfield Heights, Bernard carried his strong work ethic and love for family throughout his life. He proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, where he was stationed in Hawaii and Beaufort, South Carolina. During his time in Hawaii, he appeared as a background extra as a body on a stretcher in John Wayne's movie In Harm's Way.

Following his military service, Bernard built a long and dedicated career as a mechanical designer, working for almost 40 years and finishing at Budzar Industries. He also held a unique place in Hillcrest Hospital history as its first triple bypass operation. In retirement, he continued to stay active and connected to others through his work at Longwood Park and Target, as he truly enjoyed being around people.

Known affectionately as "Silver Fox" and "G-Pa," Bernard was a devoted family man and a loyal friend. Shortly after being set up on a blind date by his sister Bernadette, Bernard married his wife, Veann, in 1968, and together they raised three children—Donald, Tricia, and Megan. They built their dream home on Brandywine Road, where they often hosted parties and dinners for friends and family.

He often spent his spare time lending a hand—whether it was building or fixing something, anything that was needed—while visiting family and friends. He offered kindness without judgement and took great pride in being someone others could count on, while remaining humble.

Bernard was also a proud and loving uncle and great-uncle to many. He was a wonderful role model to his nieces and nephews, often taking them out for ice cream and creating lasting memories.

He loved vacationing with his family, especially to Myrtle Beach, which held a special place in his heart. He also enjoyed trips in the pop-up camper and Disneyworld, as well as visiting historical sites and homes. Bernard loved to fish, teaching many others how to as well, sharing both his patience and joy for it. He often spent time at the North Myrtle Beach State Park pier—hopeful for a big catch, though more often than not simply enjoying the moment.

Bernard spent nearly the last seven years of his life at Brentwood Healthcare, where he was cared for with compassion and visited by his family daily.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Anna Meyers; his brother, Ronald Meyers; and his sisters, Barbara Berdysz (Chet) and Geraldine Marks (Ed).

Bernard is survived by his beloved wife of over 57 years, Veann; his son, Donald (Taunie); his daughters, Tricia (Matt) and Megan (Bryan); and grandson, Everett. He is also survived by his sisters, Bernadette Fedorovich (Alan), Margie Zolan (George), and Ann Marie Murray (Mike), along with many nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 WEST AURORA RD. (OH RT 82), SAGAMORE HILLS, for visitation on Friday, April 17, from 4–8 PM. Funeral Saturday, April 18 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 a.m at St. Barnabas Catholic Church.  To allow allow all who loved Bernie to grieve together, a live stream of his Mass of Christian Burial will be available at https://www.youtube.com/live/dqab1bFn9BI . In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested in his name to the Parkinson's Foundation 1350 Broadway, Suite 1530, New York, NY 10018 or online at https://www.parkinson.org/ or Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or online at https://www.michaeljfox.org/ .

Parkinson's Foundation
1350 Broadway, Suite 1530, New York NY 10018
Web: https://www.parkinson.org/?form=19983

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
Grand Central Station, PO Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777
Web: https://tinyurl.com/MJFFPark