Donald John Bernis, age 85, of Pembroke Pines, Florida passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2019. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on Friday, January 26, 1934.
He was preceded in death by his son: Tommy Bernis; daughter: Barbara Blount and sister: Jeanette Bernis and brother: Branan Bernis.
He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for 4 years.
After nearly 20 years working as a private mechanic, he taught nearly 25 years at Sheridan Vocational Tech. He provided a fine example to his students and to us when he earned an Associates Degree at age 52.
Donald was an incredible husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a friend to many, someone who could fix anything and re-engineer something to make it work better than it was originally designed. He was appreciated by customers, students, neighbors and people.
He advocated hard work, drive, effort, learning and never cheating yourself and others by giving less than 100% to whatever it was that you were doing.
Donald is survived by his wife of 63 years: Christine Bernis; son: Paul (Anne) Bernis; daughter: Diane (Tom) Andrew; grandchildren: Randy (Talyna) Patterson, Ryan (Chris) Bernis, Corey (Rebecca) Bernis, Abigail Martin, Robyn Andrew, Andrew (Seth) Bernis; great-granddaughters: Valentina Bernis, Vivian Martin and Victoria Bernis; sister: Georgette (Gary) Louviere of St. Martinville, Louisiana and brother: Willie (Priscilla) Bernis of St. Martinville, Louisiana.
Memorial Mass to be held on Friday, October 18, 2019 at 1:00 PM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7450 Stirling Road, Hollywood, Florida 33024.
Memorial Gathering to be held on Saturday, October 19, 2019 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care, University Drive Chapel, with reception to follow until 7:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made in Donald’s memory at cancer.org.
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Kathleen Pickett (Davie)
October 14, 2019, 12:00 am
My family was so sorry to learn of your dad's passing. He and your mom were wonderful friends to both my mom and brother. And, as a result, too me also. Your mom cooked wonderful food!!! My mother was always very happy when your dad & mom brought over some homemade sauce. She had a special touch with it even though she wasn't Italian! And of course, John was always telling us where to get good po'boys & meatball subs!
They had many fond memories of their times at St. Bernadette. Wonderful memories they shared with me. And of course, your dad and I shared "the bread" ministry for way too many years!! He told me wonderful stories about Louisiana and his time in the Korean War. He went out of his way to be kind to people. He was a blessing in our lives and will be missed. Truly a wonderful man. I admired him greatly. He lived his life well, according to God's plan.
God bless you,
Kathleen Pickett and family
Leah McAllister (Delray Beach)
October 14, 2019, 12:00 am
I am so sorry about the loss of such a wonderful man. Mr. Bernis was one of the kindest people I have ever met. Louie thought of him as a second father and we loved all of the special gatherings at his home for barbecues or Chris's wonderful pastitsio, and of course his amazing pralines. I am sure there will be a void in all of the hearts of everyone who loved him, but he passed down his class, warmth and sense of family to his whole family. We will all miss you, Mr. Bernis, especially the Bello family!
Ede Andriella (Pembroke Pines)
October 15, 2019, 12:00 am
So very sorry about your loss. I know how close you are to your family and how the loss of a parent feels. My prayers are with you and my heart grieves at your loss. God Bless your fsmily.
The Savoie Family (Everett, Ontario Canada)
October 15, 2019, 12:00 am
Our deepest condolences to Paul and Anne, the boys, and their families. Thinking of you all in this difficult time.
Much love
Neil, Tonya, Mary Ellen, and Alexander
Mary Martello
October 16, 2019, 12:00 am
Our deepest sympathy in the passing of such a wonderful man. Mr. B was so loving and kind to all. He was a genuine soul that would do anything for you. He and the Bernis family are our family and we are blessed beyond measure to have known him and been part of his life for many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all!
Margaret Flake (Hollywood FL)
October 16, 2019, 12:00 am
I am so sorry for your loss. Chris you were a Godsend when Mom was so sick. Paul Wow what a treat for us to have you on our team. Diane you were always so caring for others. The memories you have of John could write a book. How do you describe awesome, caring, loving, wonderful husband, father, and friend. Hard to do. Our prayers are with you all. Margaret
Mack Moore (Dade City)
October 17, 2019, 12:00 am
Dear Chris, Susan and I just found out today of John's passing. We are truly sadden by this news. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Susan and I loved our visits with John as we shared his lemon meringe pie and heard stories of how you guys met and fell in love. What a kind, generous and loving man. He will be terribly missed. So glad God allowed our paths to cross. Our prayers will be with you and your family. Mack and Susan Moore
Stacy Bello (CLEARWATER, FL)
October 17, 2019, 12:00 am
I am saddened by the loss of Mr. Bernis who was an incredible husband, father, grandfather and friend! His DASH was very impressive as it touched so many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with Chris, Paul, Diane and your families! All our love! Steve, Stacy, Zach, Abby and Margaret
Amy Bernreuter (Davie)
October 19, 2019, 12:00 am
Sorry to hear of Mr Bernis passing,
When the lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories
In exchange. Memories are the legacy of love.
Peace be with you Mrs Bernis
And family.