Leonel J. Bernard

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Leonel J. Bernard, 98, born Sept. 28 1924, passed away peacefully in his sleep of natural causes on May 10, 2023 at his residence in San Antonio, Texas.

“Leo”, as he was known by close friends and family, was no stranger to adventure. As a member of the Army Air Corps, he established communication lines in China during World War II. He also worked as an electrician for the 1963 World’s Fair in New York and as a contractor in Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Vietnam and Pacific Islands. Leo volunteered in several locations for the National Park Service and was a licensed pilot for small planes and hot air balloons. He was a self taught piano player, and enjoyed photography and writing. He spent as much time as possible outdoors and loved animals.

His wife, Joy R. Bernard, passed away May 15, joining him in the hereafter.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents; as well as his sister, Irene Ross and his brother, Charles “Chuck” Bernard.

He is survived by his children with his former wife, Phyllis Miles Bernard, Mrs. Nancy Rowe Mason and her husband Tom, Mr. Nel A. Bernard and his wife Denise, and Mr. Jay C. Bernard and his wife Carol. He is also survived by four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Leo will be laid to rest with his wife Joy at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.