Dean James Bernhardt

Dean James Bernhardt, 88, of Vandalia, IL, formerly of St. Peter, IL, went to be with the Lord on September 7, 2023 at SBL Fayette County Hospital in Vandalia, IL.

He was born November 4, 1934 to Walter and Tillie Bernhardt. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Leroy and Charlie Bernhardt; and his sister, Wanda Tuft.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Catherine Bernhardt; four children, Carla, Jeff & Marcia, Lisa, and Billye; two step-children, Lisa and Jason; brother, Don & Mary Jane; seven grandchildren, Heather, Fred, Matthew, Max, Kieran, Jori, and Austin; eleven great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Dean’s accomplishments were many. He was a retired supervisor for a chain of Long John Silvers restaurants and former co-owner of Bernhardt Brothers Hardware Store in St. Peter.

He gave back generously to his community, spending 18 years serving on the Fayette County Board including many sub-committees. He was a school crossing guard and an active volunteer for many years with Meals on Wheels.

Dean was a faithful member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church and a member of the church choir.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Vandalia, IL with Pastor Brett Cornelius officiating. Burial will follow at Fairlawn Cemetery, Vandalia, IL. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 14, 2023, one and a half hours prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, his family asks you donate to causes that were near and dear to his heart: Holy Cross Lutheran Church and/or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.millerfh.net.

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