Walter Herbert Bernhard
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Walter Herbert Bernhard went to celebrate his 94th birthday with the love of his life and family in heaven on Friday, July 15, 2022.
Born on July 15, 1928, to Henry and Martha Bernhard in Fredericksburg, Texas, Walter grew up living and working on the ranch. One of three sons, an emphasis on a close family filled with love was instilled in him from a young age. That importance remained an integral part of his life up until his passing when he was surrounded by family members.
From a young age, Walter learned and lived by the German work ethic where you don't stop until the task at hand was complete. Whether it be working animals, doing his job at Goodyear, or repairing his own vehicles, there was nothing that he couldn't do if he put his mind to it.
He was drafted by the Army to fight in the Korean War where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic acts. In 1958, Walter began a 32-year career working at Goodyear in San Antonio.
On November 29, 1958, he married Lydia Behrens in a double wedding ceremony with Cliftine and Leroy Solbrig at Holy Ghost Lutheran Church. While living in San Antonio, the couple attended St. John's Lutheran Church, with Walter being a member of the Board of Deacons for an extended period.
Walter and Lydia made weekend trips to Fredericksburg to tend to the livestock at the ranch. The couple shared the love of animals and would routinely bring lambs back to San Antonio to care for.
In September 1962, they welcomed their only son, Troy. Over the years, the family enjoyed family fishing trips, deer hunting, and making homemade sausage. The house was never without an animal whether it be dogs, lambs, birds, or a rabbit.
After Walter's retirement in the early 90s, the couple moved back to Fredericksburg, where he resided until his passing. His days were spent caring for the ranches and livestock while helping raise his granddaughters, Amber and Autumn.
He always wanted to be around loved ones, and while we are saddened he is no longer here, we know his passing resulted in a heavenly birthday celebration followed by a continuous party.
Walter was predeceased in death by his wife, Lydia; parents, Henry and Martha; and his brothers, Alfons and Elgin. He is survived by his son and spouse, Troy and Elaine Bernhard; his granddaughters, Amber and Daniel Hicks, and Autumn Bernhard; and extended family and friends.
Services will be held at Holy Ghost Lutheran Church on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, at 10 a.m. Graveside services and interment will follow in the Greenwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to Fredericksburg SPCA, Doss Volunteer Fire Department, Holy Ghost Lutheran Church, or a charity of one's choice.
Pallbearers: Kevin Solbrig, Keith Solbrig, David Bernhard, Jimmy Bernhard, Carolyn Weidenfeller, and Marlis Icke.
Arrangements are by the Schaetter Funeral Home
Expressions of Sympathy may be made at www.schaetter.com