John F. Bernardo Jr, age 73, of Brockway, PA, passed away on May 5, 2021.
Born on March 20, 1948, he was the son of Helen Galbraith Mori and John F. Bernardo. He grew up in Brookville with his mother and stepfather Albert Mori, and his siblings Sue and Wayne.
John graduated from Brookville High School and Loch Haven University. On August 15, 1970, he married Diane (Conrad) Bernardo, and they lived in Brockway.
John taught Physical Education and Health at Brockway Elementary School for 35 years. He was recognized as Brockway’s 2003 Great Teacher. He coached the Brockway High School wrestling team for 22 years. In 2016, he was inducted into the District 9 Coaches Hall of Fame, and later that year was named Brockway Sportsman of the Year.
John was an avid runner who finished 14 marathons, including the Boston Marathon. He enjoyed traveling with his family, riding his motorcycle, golfing, reading, going to the beach, and spending time with his grandson, Tyler.
He was a member of St. Tobias Roman Catholic Church, and he was very active in both the church and the Brockway community.
John is survived by his wife, Diane; his daughter, Melissa; son-in-law, Toby and grandson, Tyler of Mount Airy, MD; his sister, Sue Mori Renaud; and brother-in-law, Michael Renaud of Ridgway; his brother, Wayne Mori of Dunkirk, NY and his sister, Lori Bernardo of Phenix City, AL.
He will be fondly remembered by his students, his wrestlers, his friends, and his family.
Calling hours will be on Sunday, May 9 from 4PM to 7PM at the Carlson-Shugarts Funeral Home Inc. in Brockway. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday May 10 at 11AM at St. Tobias Church also in Brockway with Msgr. Charles Kaza presiding. Burial will follow in St. Tobias Cemetery. At Both the visitation and the Mass social distancing protocols will be in place and masks are required. Please try and keep your visit to the funeral home short so that all who wish to attend may do so.
Although flowers are appreciated, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Tobias at 1135 Hewitt Street, Brockway PA 15824 or the We Care Fund for Brockway Elementary at 40 North Street, Brockway, PA, 15824.
