Jesse Bernal Sr.

DEFIANCE - Jesse Bernal Sr., 71, of Defiance, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on April 26, 1954, in Fostoria, Ohio, the son of Edward (Lopez) Bernal and Anastasia Cabrera. Jesse was a 1973 graduate of Defiance High School and Four County Vocational School. Throughout his life, Jesse was known for his hard work, love of sports, and deep devotion to his family and faith.

Jesse's athletic spirit shone brightly during his younger years and beyond - he played football, baseball, and old-timers football, and was a proud member of the Defiance Merchants baseball team. He also enjoyed participating in many golf and bowling leagues, where he made lifelong friendships.

He worked for UPS from 1978 until his retirement in 2012, serving faithfully as a truck driver for 34 years. Jesse's dedication, reliability, and good humor earned him the respect of coworkers and customers alike.

A proud member of his community, Jesse was actively involved in VFW Post 3360, AMVETS, and St. John Catholic Church in Defiance. His faith guided his life, and he was honored to serve with the Knights of Columbus, where he once held the position of Grand Knight.

Above all, Jesse's greatest joy was his family. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and fiancé, whose kindness, patience, and laughter will be dearly missed.

Jesse is survived by his fiancé, Patti Schlosser; his sons, Jesse (Brian) of Orlando, Florida, and Jason (Christina) of Defiance; brothers Christopher of Georgia, Gilbert (Ofelia) of Texas, and Henry of Ohio; sisters Martha (Alec) Rodriguez of Florida and Connie (Ray) Peare of Georgia; and his cherished grandchildren, Carter (Rachel), Lucy (Leo), Jackson, Owen, Bernadette, Maximillian, Gemma, and Benedict, and awaiting his first unborn great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Eddie Jr., Carlos, John; and sister Angie.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at St. John Catholic Church in Defiance, with Father David Cirata officiating. Graveside services will be at Riverview Memory Gardens, where graveside rites will be accorded at a later date.

Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that donations be made to Holy Cross Catholic School, Defiance Ohio in Jesse's memory.

Jesse Bernal Sr. will be remembered for his generous heart, steadfast faith, and unwavering love for his family. A legacy that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.