Raymond J. Bernat Sr., 89, a resident of Wheaton, died Wednesday, December 23, 2020.

Ray lived a full, active, and accomplished life. Born on March 20, 1931 in Chicago to Ann and Albert Bernat. He served honorably as a Rank Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1/8/51-1/7/54 and earned the Korean Service Medal w/3*, United Nations Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He exemplified the phrase "once a marine, always a marine" and touted the Semper Fi motto at every opportunity. Ray began his apprenticeship as an electrician under his father-in-law and continued in that career until retirement.  He was a proud member of the IBEW.

Known affectionately by his neighbors as the "Mayor of North Path" he was a memorable and charismatic force. An institution in his neighborhood, he was frequently spotted strolling the streets with his late dog Nikki. He made it a point to know everyone, and everyone knew him. Always unapologetically himself, he loved to chat, heckle, and joke with anyone who would entertain his antics. He was the kind of guy who knew all his neighbors' names, what kind of car they drove, and which house projects they were working on.

He loved traveling and pulled a 35 foot trailer around the country in his meticulously decorated and maintained truck. One of his favorite places was Bryce Canyon, unforgettable and one of a kind, much like him.

He always knew where, when, and how to find a free cup of coffee whether it was a rest stop, a grocery store, or a campground and made an art out of charming the bank tellers to make sure he got the "good stuff" in the back. He never hesitated to tell you exactly what he thought and his surly but charming candor always left an impression.

A cherished friend to many, he was also a beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his four children Elaine (Bob) Bartz of Hanover Park, Raymond J. (Diane) Bernat, Jr. of Woodridge, Laura (Rich) Perlowski of Livonia, MI, and Adrianne (Michael) Prunty of Lecanto, FL; five grandchildren, Lindsey, Josh, Ben, Therese, and Eric; and three great-grandchildren Emma, Charlie, and Ray.

While he leaves behind so many in his passing, we hope he rejoins those whose deaths preceded him; his late wife, Mary Ann Bernat, his parents, Ann and Albert Bernat,  his brother Stanley, and sister Carol.
His bold, authentic, and feisty spirit lives on in all the memories of those who knew and loved him

Memorial gifts may be directed to VFW Post (Wheaton) 2164, 0N731 Papworth St, Wheaton, IL 60187.

Interment with Military Honors will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, Illinois 60421 , on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. (Please meet at the cemetery information center by 1:45 p.m.)

A Celebration of Life will be held at Cooper's Corner Restaurant, 27W150 Roosevelt Road, Winfield, Illinois 60190 on July 30, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. (Please RSVP to bernatfamilyserviceupdate@gmail.com by July 16th.)