Obituary of Donald Bernier Sr.

Donald F. Bernier, Sr., passed away unexpectedly on October 6^th, 2023, in Winter Haven, Florida, at the age of 86.  Don was born in
Hartford, Connecticut, on April 23^rd, 1937 to Albert Bernier and Marcella Scully.  The owner of several successful tool and die
companies, Don specialized in precision work for Sikorsky Aircraft, Pratt & Whitney, as well as other large firms.

He was a long time Connecticut native with a great passion for the outdoors.  Don was an avid fisherman, having fished with Lee Wulff, Ernie Schweibert, John Merwin and many others.  He fished in such wilderness areas as, Chile, Newfoundland and Alaska, to name a few. In his later years, Don stalked bonefish and tarpon in Florida with his favorite flyrod. A master craftsman, the fly rods and reels Don built are virtual works of art.

Don was a voracious reader, and was able to quote entire works by Robert Service. He was also a long-time Mason. Don was a man who enjoyed the company of the great many friends from all walks of life he made during his travels and will be sorely missed. 

Don was predeceased by his wife, Kathryn (Bennett) Bernier in 2022 and son, William J. Bernier in 1984. He is survived by his son, Don Bernier, Jr., and daughter-in-law Deborah Bernier of Thomaston, Connecticut; also by his granddaughter, Rachel McGee; and great-granddaughter, Lillian of Canton, Connecticut, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. 

There will be a private family service at a later date.