John Frederick Bernhardt's Obituary
John Frederick Bernhardt passed away peacefully in his home on November 4, 2023. He was 77
years old. John was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, friend, and colleague to many. He will be
forever in our hearts.
John was born on April 14, 1946 in Racine, Wisconsin to Dorothy Bernhardt and Frederick
Bernhardt. He was raised in Racine, Wisconsin until he joined the US Air Force in July 1965. He
began working for the US Department of State in July 1969 eventually retiring in October 1994.
He spent most of his life working in the service of his country. Even after his retirement from the
State Department, he continued to work with his former government colleagues as a contractor for
many years. To his family, friends and colleagues, John was a person with unwavering loyalty and
integrity. He will be greatly missed.
John is survived by his long-time partner, Linda Cramer; sister, Linda; brother, William; sister, Jean;
his children; Jeffery and Mark; grandchildren, Xander, Zachary, Zane, and William; niece, Kristy; and
nephews, Daniel, Peter, and David.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Culpeper National
Cemetery, New Section, 501 e. Chandler Street, Culpeper, VA with Military Honors provided by the
VFW Post 2524.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorial contributions can be made in John’s name to one of the
following; National Audubon Society at https://act.audubon.org/a/honorary-gift, the National Parks
Conservation Society at https://support.npca.org/page/55687/donate/1?locale=en-US, or the PSB
Foundation at
https://supportpbsfoundation.pbs.org/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app20068b?df_id=1520&
1520.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&NONCE_TOKEN=59CF4DD146E660F7423C8EC3BB55B7B8
An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at www.foundandsons.com
Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?