Dale Wilber Bernath, 79, lifelong resident of rural Waldron, died Thursday evening, October 25, 2018, at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo, OH.
Born February 18, 1939, on the family farm in Wright Township, he was the son of the late Donald and Donelda (Randall) Bernath.
Dale was a 1957 graduate of Waldron Area Schools. He married the love of his life, Dorothy Pearce, on November 24, 1959, in her hometown of Camden. She survives.
Being raised on a farm, Dale had a passion for farming and the outdoors that was sustained throughout his entire life. He proudly farmed crops as well as raised livestock that supplied meat to his family through the years. In 1972, he began a career with Miller Bros. Construction, Inc., in Archbold, OH, and before his retirement served as the superintendent of its asphalt division.
In addition to farming, Dale enjoyed the seasonal sports of deer hunting and fishing, as well as woodworking- a talent he put to use creating various home furnishings including clocks, picture frames, and tables. A mechanically-inclined mind, he could fix just about anything in need of repair, and enjoyed restoring and repairing vintage air rifles. He was diligent in being politically informed, and was proud to support numerous candidates and issues for election during his years as a dutiful voter.
Dale most treasured the blessings bestowed upon him from his loving family. As the patriarch, he provided them with unconditional love, as well as numerous cherished memories and family traditions, including an annual gathering making maple syrup. He will be sorely missed.
Surviving in addition to his wife of nearly 59 years, Dorothy, are a son, Mark (Lucinda) Bernath of West Unity, OH; two daughters, Malinda (Vincent) Bernath-Simon of Pleasant View, TN, and Shelly Tengler of Beverly Hills, MI; five grandchildren, Rachel (Matt) Yoder, Lauren (Dan) Hurd, and Grant, Colin and Hunter Tengler; and four great-grandchildren, Jacob, Oliver and Wilbur Yoder, and Marigold Hurd.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two siblings, Doris Rifle and Dean Bernath.
In accordance with Dale’s final wishes, cremation will take place. The family will receive friends for a visitation on Tuesday, October 30, 2018, from 4-6 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home in Fayette. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Samuel Wickard officiating. Interment will be made at a later date in the Waldron Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in honor of Dale are suggested to Wright-Waldron Fire & EMS or a charity of the donor’s choice.