Charles W. Bernard

Bernard, Charles W. 92 March 30, 1919 Jan. 21, 2012 Charles was born to Maney and Myrtle Bernard in Portland. His father served as a Portland Police officer and his mother as a one time Idaho State Representative. In 1938, Charles pursued a career in theater in California and radio in Chicago. He met his wife, Eleanor Rose Fehr, in 1940 and married in 1942 after being inducted into the U.S. Navy. From 1943 to 1945, Charles was on duty in the south pacific during WWII as a Radioman 1st Class. He returned to Portland after the war and then went to Eugene and became the first voice on the air at the new KUGN. He also worked in radio in California until 1950. He served his country again in the Korean War. In 1952, he worked at KPOJ as the morning radio personality "Scappoose Joe" and announcer on news programs and hosted "Serenade to the Stars". He was staff announcer for KATU for nine years during the 60's. Charles was in over 30 stage plays, including performances at the Portland Civic Theater, New Rose Theater and Oregon Stage Co. He also acted in Television and Radio commercials, locally produced Hollywood films, print ads and Industrial films. Always to high praise; acting was his true calling, Portland, his true home. He was a long time member of AFTRA and SAG and a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars. He and wife, Ellie, of 65 years, enjoyed many travels and she passed in 2007. They were truly devoted to each other. Charles was a true gentleman. A highly intelligent, kind, compassionate, liberal husband, father, son and friend. He will be truly missed and loved. He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Hodges and Andrea Badrigian; and his sons, Doran Bernard, Devin Bernard, Brian Bernard and Charles Bernard; their spouses and children; grandchildren; and great grandchildren. Memorial service is Friday, Jan. 27 at 1:30 p.m. at Willamette National Cemetery.