**Longtime Tyler Resident and Community Leader John Bernhardt Dies at 76**
TYLER – John Bernhardt, a devoted family man, community leader, and longtime resident of Tyler, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2024, at the age of 76. Bernhardt was known for his extensive career in the energy sector and his active involvement with First Presbyterian Church in Tyler.
Born on February 26, 1948, in Austin, Texas, to Stephen and Kathryn Bernhardt, John built a life deeply rooted in East Texas. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Tyler in 1966 before earning his associate's degree from Tyler Junior College in 1968. He then continued his education at the University of Texas at Austin, completing his bachelor's degree in 1970. Following his education, Bernhardt honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era.
His professional life spanned three decades with East Texas Natural Gas Company, where he rose through the ranks to retire as Vice President of Supply and Marketing. Beyond his professional achievements, Bernhardt was a devout member of First Presbyterian Church in Tyler, located at 230 W Rusk St, Tyler, TX 75701, and found great joy in the outdoors, pursuing fishing, hunting, and gardening. He was also a lifelong and ardent fan of the Dallas Cowboys.
John was married to Susan Bernhardt on August 15, 1970. He is survived by his beloved wife and their two children: son Stephen Bernhardt and his wife Lori, and daughter Kristin Krolczyk and her husband Kyle. He was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Andrew and Mary Kathryn Bernhardt, and Kason and Kolby Krolczyk. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Eargle, and her husband John, along with their daughters, Katie and Allison Williams.
A visitation for Mr. Bernhardt will be held today, Thursday, May 23, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Stewart Family Funeral Home, 7525 Old Jacksonville Hwy, Tyler, TX 75703.
A memorial service will take place tomorrow, Friday, May 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Tyler, with Dr. David Manton officiating. A reception will follow immediately after the service in Westminster Hall at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to First Presbyterian Church of Tyler, accessible online at www.fpctyler.org, or to The Hospice of East Texas Foundation, which can be found at www.hospiceofeasttexas.org.
