James W. Bernhart

James W. Bernhart, 83, of Reading, passed away January 2, 2022, in the Reading Hospital where he was a patient since December 6^th.

Born in West Reading, he was a son of the late George R. Bernhart, Sr., and Anna (Schell) Bernhart. He was the husband of Myra Lou (Reichert) Bernhart, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage.

A Reading High School graduate, he worked for Talbot Knitting from 1969-1984 and Albright College for 20 years, retiring in 2004. He was a member of Bern Evangelical Lutheran Church, Bern Twp., and the Happy Bombardiers since 2012. He completely restored his 1933 Ford and drove it to Niagara Falls for their honeymoon.

In addition to his wife Myra, he is survived by his brother – Harry husband of Frances Bernhart, sister-in-law Joanne Bernhart, his daughter Marie wife of Pete Patestas, Lebanon, his granddaughters – Vanessa Brossman companion of Tiago DaLuz, Toms River, NJ, Tiffany wife of Casey Tobin, his grandsons – Yanni Patestas, Matthew Patestas, his great grandchildren – Giovanna DaLuz, Lily Acker, Gerald Acker, Baylen Tobin, Paxton Tobin, nine nieces and five nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers – John and George, Jr., and his wife Gloria

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2022, at 11:00 AM in Bern Evangelical Lutheran Church, 820 W. Leesport Road, Leesport, PA 19533. The Reverend Phyllis Wolkenhauer will officiate. Interment in Laureldale Cemetery, Tuckerton. Viewing Thursday from10-11 AM at the church. Everyone attending will need to wear a mask. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to his church at the above address. The Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Shillington, is assisting the Bernhart family. www.kleefuneralhome.com