Richard Milo Bernardi

Richard Milo Bernardi passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at the age of 86. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on September 29, 1938, he was the beloved son of the late Fred Bernardi and Bertha (Cioni) Bernardi.
Richard lived a life defined by quiet devotion, craftsmanship, and connection. He met the love of his life, Patricia (Foley) Bernardi, when they were just teenagers in high school. From that first spark, they built a loving and lasting marriage that spanned 47 years until Pat's passing. Together, they shared a deep bond and spirit of adventure, always finding joy in life's simple pleasures and in each other's company. They loved taking road trips, often packing up the car and heading north for long weekends, exploring Michigan's natural beauty. Whether it was a spontaneous adventure or an everyday moment, Richard and Pat savored their time together.
Though they never had children, Richard and Pat built a life full of meaning, laughter, and exploration. Their home was filled with love-and often with the sound of their cherished schnauzers, who were like children to them. Each bark and paw pitter patter left an imprint on their hearts.
An avid outdoorsman, Richard found deep joy and peace in the natural world, especially through fishing and hunting. He cherished the calm of early mornings on the water, the stillness broken only by the sound of his line hitting the surface or the occasional tug of a catch. The Detroit River was one of his favorite places-he spent countless days navigating its waters in his boat. Whether fishing solo or with a friend, those moments brought him a sense of contentment that few things could match. In the fall, he welcomed hunting season with the same quiet enthusiasm, appreciating not just the sport but the crisp air, changing leaves, and time spent outdoors. Golf was another passion Richard enjoyed deeply. He spent many days on local courses swinging his clubs, never in a hurry, always soaking in the rhythm of the game. Whether playing nine holes or a full round, he reveled in both the challenge and the companionship it offered. For Richard, these weren't just hobbies-they were traditions that shaped his seasons and brought him lasting joy.
Professionally, Richard was a gifted barber for 54 years. Known simply as "Mr. Richard," he served the community with warmth, patience, and an expert hand at his shop in the Lincoln Park Plaza. He was especially skilled at working with women and children, and generations of clients came to trust him-not only with their hair, but with their stories and milestones. His work was more than a job; it was a calling rooted in connection and a family legacy he carried proudly.
He is lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law: Jo Ann Darin, Cora Foley, Colleen (Scott) Braley, Nancy (Michael) Byrum, and Vicki Foley; his cousins Joseph (Sherry) Bernardi and Lino (Melinda) Petrucco; and by his many nieces and nephews, all of whom he cherished deeply.
He also leaves behind a circle of longtime friends whose lives ebbed and flowed over the years, but were always like family: John and Emily Solosy, Brett Gayney, Bruce Richmond, Kip and Nancy Horvath, and Barbara Bonk. Their shared stories, golf outings, dinners, and laughter brought so much richness to his life.
A proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Richard upheld the values of service, community, and faith throughout his life. He will be remembered for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and unwavering love for those around him. His legacy is one of loyalty, gentle strength, and a life well and truly lived.
Richard was laid to rest at Michigan Memorial Cemetery in the care of Solosy Funeral Home.