Bernard ‘Bernie’ G. Held, 89, formerly Burlington, died Nov. 8, 2013, at Elmcroft Assisted and Hospice in Kentwood, Mich., surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren.
He was born in Reedsburg, to the late Gustav and Nora (Krueger) Held. He spent his early life in La Valle, where he attended school, farmed and worked for Backeberg Trucking.
He married Marvelene Backeberg on Aug. 26, 1947. Following marriage they made their home in Reedsburg. Later they moved to Burlington where he raised his family and worked for Quality Carriers for 35 years. Upon retiring they moved to Port Charlotte, Fla. She preceded him in death Sept. 21, 1990, after 43 years of marriage.
On March 12, 1995, he married Harriet Eisenhauer. They made their home in Port Charlotte and later moved to Kentwood.
He enjoyed washing and detailing his vehicles, woodworking projects, bird watching, and taking care of his orange trees. Most of all he loved all the times spent with his family.
He was a former member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Burlington, and Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Charlotte.
Survivors include his wife of 18 years; children, JoAnn (Dale) Leasure, East Troy, Patricia (Harlan) Sime, Burlington, Joyce (Glenn) Rodriguez, New Munster, Robert (Margaret) Held, Lyons: sister-in-law, Phyllis Held, Wonewoc; 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
He was further preceded in death by his brother, Rudy.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the employees of Elmcroft Assisted Living, Hospice, and Terry and Carol Tufts for their kindness, loving care and compassion.
Vitiation is Saturday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m., with a memorial service at noon at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 198 Westridge Ave., Burlington. Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory, Burlington, is serving the family.
Memorials to Christ the King Lutheran Church, 23456 Olean Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33980 are suggested.
Well-wishers can visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
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