Donald Royce Bernhardt

Donald “Don” Royce Bernhardt, age 89, passed away on September 22, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Don was born on to Ray and Edna (Batten) Bernhardt on July 15, 1935, in Cook County, IL. After graduating from high school at age 16, Don began work at his dad’s bakery as well as on the family farm and attended college. 

Soon after, Don began work at a redwood furniture company in Wisconsin. He began his family after marrying Viola Lemon while in Wisconsin and when that company offered him a position in California, he jumped at it, and moved there and continued to grow his family. In the mid 90’s he returned to his roots in Wisconsin and lived in Clintonville for a bit, then retired to Menasha which truly became his happy place.

Don enjoyed fishing and watching and coaching football and baseball. He also enjoyed reading and doing the daily New York Times crossword puzzle. 

He loved the fact that he had grandchildren.

In May of 1999, Don married Lynn Thiel, and the two shared 9 years together before pancreatic cancer took her from him.

Don is survived by his children: Mark (Catharine) Bernhardt, Kevin (Lisa) Bernhardt and Cheryl (Jackie) Morgan; grandchildren: Bret, Justin, Joshua and Eddie and great grandchildren: Caleb, Gwendolyn and Atlas. He is further survived by his sister Sandra (Martin) Lightner and other relatives and friends.

Don was preceded in passing by his wife Lynn, his parents and his siblings: Wayne (Dolly) Bernhardt, Marilyn Brummer, Marita Kiernan.

At Don’s request, a graveside service and burial will take place on September 26, 2024, at 2:00pm at Resthaven Cemetery, 206 North Street, Neenah, WI.