Obituary of Shirley Ann Bernhard

Shirley Ann Bernhard
(nee Brooker)

Age 88, at peace Monday July 3, 2017 with her loving family surrounding her.  Shirley was born in Joliet, IL on June 18, 1929.

She is survived by her four sons, Lawrence, David (Laura), Steven (Lynn) and Robert Jr. (Rose) Bernhard. Eight grandchildren, Amy, Paula, Lindzie, Emily, Katie, Michael, Tony and Stephanie. Also, special step granddaughter, Elizabeth.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph (1973) and Irene Brooker (1997) and beloved husband of fifty-six years, Robert J. Bernhard (2008).  Also, beloved grandchild Nicholas Bernhard (1992).

Shirley graduated from Joliet Township High School in 1947 and then received an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts in 1949 from Joliet Junior College where she met her late husband, Robert.  Prior to her marriage to Bob in 1952, she worked at the Joliet Arsenal as an assistant secretary to the commandant.  Soon after their wedding, Mr. and Mrs. Bernhard began their life on the farm in Peotone before moving to the Shorewood farm in 1956 where they would spend the next 48 years lovingly tending to farm and family.  Shirley's life could be summed up in six simple words: "What can I do for you?"  Life was never about her but about the greater good.  A more self-sacrificing person has never lived, and her loss will be forever mourned by those who loved her.  The world is certainly diminished by her passing.

Funeral Services for Shirley Ann Bernhard will be held on Saturday July 8, 2017, 9:00 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to St. Mary Catholic Church, Minooka where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m.  Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name to the Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated. Visitation Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com