James R. 'Gunny' Bernhardt

James R. Bernhardt, “Gunny,” age 72, passed away Sunday, September 6, 2009, at Select Specialty Hospital, Milwaukee. He was born in Racine, October 22, 1936, son of the late Richard and Mae (Nee:Troxell) Bernhardt.

Jim joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1953, served two tours of duty in Vietnam, and retired in 1973 as a Gunnery Sergeant. Along with his brother, Mike, he co-owned Bernhardts Tavern on 14th St and later Bernhardt’s Happy Happy on Douglas Avenue. Jim was a member of VFW Post 1391 and was an avid Packers fan.

Surviving are his sisters, Dorothy Mac Dowell, Audrey Baran and Kathleen (Willard) Lovely; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Maryann (James) Williams; and his brother, Michael (Doris) Bernhardt.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, September 14, 2009, at 11 a.m. at St. Lucy’s Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., with Reverend Mark R. Jones officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet Monday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, an act of kindness has been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888