WEBSTER – Robert E. Bernier, 86, formerly of Klebart Ave., died Saturday, June 2, 2012 in St. Francis Rehab & Nursing Center, Worcester, surrounded by his family, after a period of declining health. His wife of 47 years, Mary M. (Dorr) Bernier, died in 2003.
He leaves a daughter, Anne Marie MacNamara and her husband Peter A. MacNamara of Worcester; 2 grandchildren, Megan M. and Declan R. MacNamara; several in-laws, nephews, nieces and cousins. He was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Edmond Bernier and Henry G. Bernier.
He was born in Dudley and raised on Chase Avenue, a son of Henry J. and Alma (Riendeau) Bernier. He lived in Webster for many years before moving to his daughter’s home a few years ago. He graduated from Bartlett High School in 1943.
He was a Marine Corps veteran of World War II, serving as a corporal. He saw action at Iwo Jima.
Mr. Bernier was a tool maker for over 30 years at the former General Motors in Framingham. He retired in 1992. In his retirement, he worked as a janitor at several branches of the Webster Five Cents Savings Bank.
He was a member of Saint Louis Church, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister. He worked at many parish festivals and also volunteered for the Bishop’s Fund, now Partners in Charity, for several years. He was a member and past president of the Serra Club of Southern Worcester County. He was also a member of the Webster-Dudley Knights of Columbus Council #228. He belonged to the Webster-Dudley American Legion Post 184.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the staff on the Rockwell Unit at St. Francis Rehab & Nursing Center for their tender care and compassion for Bob in his last days.
The funeral will be held on Thursday, June 7, from Scanlon Funeral Service, 38 East Main Street, with a Mass at 10:00 AM in Saint Louis Church, 14 Lake Street. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. The Webster-Dudley Veterans Council will perform the military honors at the cemetery. Calling hours are from 5:00 to 8:00 PM Wednesday, June 6, in the funeral home. Donations in his name may be made to either St. Louis School Endowment Fund, 15 Lake St., Webster, MA 01570 or to St. Francis Adult Day Care Program, 101 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01604.