Richard C. Bernard

ALBANY- Richard C. "Poppa" Bernard, 84, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2016, at The Teresian House where he resided for the past two years.

Richard was born in Ravena to his parents, Charles and Edna, who predeceased him at 13 years old. He was raised by his foster family "The Court's" who treated him as if he was their own child. He went to Ravena Coeyman High School and graduated at the top of his class. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Laura T. Bernard, in 2007. He worked for IBM for 34 years when he retired and then was called back for a few more years. He also worked for Sears and Regional Food Bank during his retirement. He was a Korean War Veteran in the Air Force and loved his country. He belonged to the American Legion in Clifton Park where he played softball until he was 73 years old. He was an avid ball player and tried out for the Boston Braves, Philadelphia Phillies and many leagues.

He is survived by his son, Richard J. Bernard (Rosemary); daughters, Renee Bernard, Lori Rodino (Rick) and Lisa Rochminski (Mark); grandchildren, Nicholas Bernard, Anthony and Gianna Rodino. Also his canine companion "Koko" whom he loved and remembered when he couldn't remember his children's names.

He is predeceased by his brother, Donald Bernard; sister-in-law, Harriet Bernard; and granddaughter, Rachel Rodino.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, July 26, at the Infant of Prague Chapel at the Teresian House, Albany. Visitation will be prior to the Mass from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Internment will be following a Mass at the Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands.

We would like to thank the staff at Carmel Garden's West at The Teresian House whom became a part of our family. We can not thank them enough for their love, humor, compassion and care, especially his nurses, aides, and Sister Maureen and Sister Joan.

Contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to The Alzheimer's Association , Northeastern New York, 4 Pine West Plaza Suite 405, Albany, NY 12205 or The Huntington's Association, 7 Woodland Dr., Castleton on the Hudson, NY 12033.