Nov. 9, 1934 — Nov. 2, 2015

Bernard W. “Bernie” Thielmann, 80, formerly of Dowagiac, passed away on Monday, Nov. 2, 2015, at Care Community in Lawton, Michigan.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, 2015, at Hope United Methodist Church, 69941 Elkhart Road, Edwardsburg, Michigan with Reverend Jeff Reese officiating. Burial at Riverside Cemetery will take place at a later date. Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 5 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Myra Thielmann, in his memory. Those wishing to leave a memory or condolence of Bernie online may do so at www.clarkch.com.

Bernie was born on Nov. 9, 1934, in Chicago, to Joseph and Anna (Boughan) Thielmann. Bernie served his country by enlisting in the United States Army in 1952. He received an Associate’s Degree in Business Accounting from Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac. He married the former Jane Leeper on Oct. 20, 1962. Jane preceded him in death in August of 1966. On Dec. 18, 1978, he married the former Marilynn Dodd.

Bernie enjoyed traveling to Colorado. He loved to visit with friends and family. Bernie belonged to the Christian Motorcycle Association. He volunteered on the holidays serving meals to the homeless. He enjoyed modifying furniture, often adding wheels to chairs. In his free time he played chess, solitaire and watched old western movies.

Bernie is survived by his daughter, Myra (Richard Farkas) Thielmann of Edwardsburg; six grandchildren: Andrew, Jane (David), Broc, Rich, Michael and Amber, a special granddaughter Alisa and five great grandchildren.

Bernie was preceded in death by his first wife Jane and his second wife Marilynn, three brothers; Francis Bissenden, Joseph Thielmann and David Thielmann and two sisters; Babe Rasmussen and Elizabeth Bissenden.