WAYLAND: Douglas James Bernard, 97, died peacefully and comfortably surrounded by his family on Tuesday, February 28, 2017 following a period of declining health.
He was born on February 19, 1920 in Cardiff, Wales the son of the late John McDermott Bernard and Edith Eliza Bessie (Burt) Bernard.
Douglas was the husband for 59 years of the late Caroline (Harbison) Bernard who died on May 12, 2003.
He is survived by his devoted sons Douglas J. Bernard, Jr and his wife Marilyn of Yarmouthport; Robert J. Bernard and his wife Jean of Scituate, Rhode Island and George H. Bernard and his wife Carolyn of Wayland. Also survived by 10 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Douglas came to the United States from Wales at the age of 10 and resided in Brighton with his family. He was a graduate of Brighton High School. In 1944, he volunteered and enlisted in the United States Army and served during World War II as a Private First Class at the Battle of the Bulge to the Czechoslovakia border and saw combat with the European African Middle Eastern Theatre and in Central Europe. While serving his country, he earned his citizenship and was awarded the bronze star. After his tour of duty, he returned home to his wife and young son. Douglas then resumed working for Raytheon as a Glassblower and retired after 44 years of dedicated service at the Quincy, Waltham and Lexington facilities of the company.
He has resided in Wayland for over 27 years and with his wife, retired in 1984 to South Dennis and later returned to Wayland. He and his wife Caroline enjoyed living on the Cape and wintering in Naples, Florida. He loved to play tennis and did so until he was 89 years of age. Douglas also enjoyed fishing, both on the Cape and in Florida. He was devoted to his family and loved the time spent with them and recently celebrated his 97th birthday.
Visitations will be held on Sunday, March 5, 2017 from 2:00 to 4:00 on at the John C. Bryant Funeral Home, 56 Pemberton Road (Off Rte 30), Wayland,
His funeral service will follow at 4:00 pm at the funeral home.
Interment will be held on Monday, March 6, 2017 at 10:30 am at the Veteran National Cemetery in Bourne.
In lieu of flowers, Douglas’ family request that donations in his memory be sent to Trinitarian Congregational Church Mission Fund, 53 Cochituate Road, Wayland, MA 01778