Tom Bernard, age 73, of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away unexpectedly May 25, 2026 in Bemidji, Minnesota following an enjoyable bike ride.

Thomas Edward Bernard was born July 1, 1952 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota a son of Arlene (Winberg) and Donald Bernard.  He grew up in Grand Rapids, graduating from high school in 1970.  Tom was always a hard worker.  As a student, he was employed at Blandin Paper Mill and shortly after that time, he became a full-time employee for more than 30 years.

On August 18, 1979, Tom was united in marriage to Mary Margaret Doyle.  Together, they raised their four children, Sean, twin daughters, Heather and Kendra, and Cassie.

Tom can be remembered as an active, athletic man and an outdoorsman.  Concerned about being in the best physical condition, Tom routinely worked out at the Grand Rapids YMCA.  He truly enjoyed running long distance races including the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon, held annually during the summer Grandma's Marathon weekend and other half marathon races.  Going for long distance bicycle rides was another favorite pastime; he was a strong fast bicyclist.

Tom was an avid sportsman.  When he was younger, he enjoyed playing on the Church Softball League and later in life, he never missed a Minnesota Twins game.  If he didn't have a ticket to see the Twins at Target Field in Minneapolis, he would enjoy the televised games and discuss the game with his son, Sean.

Being with his family was so important to him.  Perhaps it was deer hunting and being with others in the deer stand or attending sporting events that his grandchildren participated in.  He was there to root for his son at Special Olympic events, to watch his granddaughter perform in her ballet recitals and playing softball or watch his grandsons in their sporting events – football, and basketball, and baseball.  He was a very proud grandpa and father.

Tom is survived by his children, Sean Bernard of Grand Rapids, Kendra Sickler (Nate Rigelman) of Moose Lake, MN, Heather (Karl) Kunz of Hermantown, and Cassie Bernard (Josh Cole) of Marble, MN; 7 grandchildren, Casey, Ryleigh, Charlie, Jackson, Ben, Jack and Emersyn; siblings, Carolyn (Len) Swanberg, Douglas Bernard, Mary Bernard who grew up as his sister, and Kathleen (Mike) Gunderson; numerous nieces and nephews, former co-workers and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Bernard; and his parents, Donald and Arlene Bernard.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Rowe Funeral Home in Grand Rapids with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM.  A family interment service will take place at a later time.