Joseph Albert Berard

Joseph Albert Berard - a man whose life was a true statement to human strength and endurance, to which he fought with courage and dignity until his final breath. He died peacefully on July 18, 2016, in St. Augustine, Florida, surrounded by loved ones. He was 86.
Joe is preceded in death by his daughters, Deborah and Jody Marie.
He is survived by his wife, Charlotte; son, Joseph Thomas; and daughter, Donna. He will continue to be an inspiration to his five granddaughters, five great-granddaughters and three great-grandsons.
Joe's adult journey began as an 82nd Airborne Ranger and instructor at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was a skydiver with over 200 jumps. Joe was a long-distance runner since the '60s, finishing over 60 marathons and triathlons. In October 1984, Joe placed third in his age division in the Ironman triathlon in Kona, Hawaii.
Joe was a fitness expert trainer and coach of a number of world-class athletes. He was also the owner and director of Belmar Nautilus/Iron City Gym in Monmouth County, New Jersey. He formed the first New Jersey all-women's racing team.
Before retiring permanently in Spring Lake, N.J., Joe enjoyed a third career as chief lifeguard on the beach in Spring Lake and Belmar, N.J.
After their relocation to Florida, Joe earned the senior world title holder award in power lifting, and in 2011 was honored by the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office for outstanding service to his community.
Memorial services will take place Saturday, July 23, 2016, at noon at St. Johns Family Funeral Home: 385 SR 207, St. Augustine, FL 32084.
Personal friends and family are welcome at an informal celebration of Joe's life at the Community Club House of Moultrie Oak, 245 Wildwood Drive, St. Augustine, from 2:30 until 4:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe's name to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida: 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32257.
St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.