Richard Bernhardt

Richard Paul Bernhardt February 15, 1950 – January 19, 2026

Richard Paul Bernhardt passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, after a courageous four-and-a-half-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He went peacefully in his sleep at home, while surrounded by his family.

Rich was born on February 15, 1950, in North Bend, Oregon, to Darwin and Jean Bernhardt. He graduated from Klamath Union High School in 1968 and went on to attend Oregon Technical Institute, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Rich spent most of his professional life at Evergreen Engineering, a business he proudly co-founded with two partners and served as CEO. His work ethic, integrity, and dedication to excellence were evident in everything he did.

On March 11, 1972, Rich married the love of his life, Donna Jean (Lewis) Bernhardt, his high school sweetheart whom he met at the age of 16. Together they shared 54 years of marriage and raised three daughters.

An avid golfer, Rich's passion for the game started when he played on his college team. He later became a member at Shadow Hills Country Club in 1998 where he served on the board three times, and was instrumental to the design of the clubhouse, and the Member-Guest Tournament.

Rich is survived by his wife, Donna Bernhardt; his daughters and their families: Amber, her husband James Burnett, and their daughter Charlotte; Brandi, her husband Chris Pine, and their son Carson; and Cara, her husband Jon Orlanes, and their sons Kai and Kobi; his brother Don Bernhardt; his sister Laura Steil; his mother-in-law Vera Lewis; his brother-in-law Dennis Lewis; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Rich will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, wealth of knowledge, sense of humor, and his love of sports. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, and the family he loved. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him.