Obituary of Michael Stanley Bernat

Michael S. Bernat, of Palmer, a loving husband, dedicated father and compassionate educator, passed away unexpectedly April 19. He was 65 years old.

He was born in New Bedford, Mass. on August, 18 1955, to the late Frydryk and Lucille F.J. (Brunette) Bernat. He attended Bishop Stang High School, in North Dartmouth, and attended the University of Massachusetts at Amherst to study Restaurant and Hotel Management. While enrolled he met Mary, his wife of 46 years, as they both worked at the Friendly’s restaurant in Northampton.

In 1980, he started a lengthy career at Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School’s culinary arts program. First as an instructor before eventually becoming the school’s food service director, earning his master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2005.

He relished his time at Pathfinder as an educator, as well his friendship with fellow teacher Steve Alger. The pair was well-known for their sense of humor, which included participating in the school’s talent show one year as “the singing belly chefs.” Michael was particularly proud of the role he had in managing the school’s in-house restaurant, The Tea Room, and its senior lunch program, always taking time to assist the elderly, making sure everyone who visited was welcomed and well-fed. An advocate for fellow teachers, he was actively involved with the Pathfinder Education Association as representative and as president. He also coached the school’s golf team. He retired in 2011 after 31 years teaching. Michael also loved basketball and spent several years as a coach in Palmer’s youth basketball program.

He loved music, both listening and playing, and cherished an acoustic guitar Mary gifted him for Christmas in 1991. His favorite musicians were Lou Reed and Neil Young, an artist who held a special place in his heart.

He took up the game of golf at a young age, playing until his retirement. His frequent companion on the links was Eddie Amatruda who he met as a freshman in college. If Eddie ever called in the early morning to say “the birds are on the green” then the two would be out golfing later that day.

In retirement, he spent winters in Panama City Beach, Florida. He and Mary enjoyed escaping the cold and exploring the panhandle’s beaches and local eateries. A lover of the water, he enjoyed boating, whether on fresh or saltwater.

He was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Lucille, a brother, Mathieu, and a nephew, Anthony Brazil.

Michael is survived by his wife: Mary (Stonina) Bernat; two sons: Matthew and Nicholas and his wife Victoria; a granddaughter: Ivy Jane; three siblings: Marc S. Bernat and his wife Charlene, Suzanne M. Tompkins and her husband Scott and Jeanne L. B. Avila and her husband Michael, and seven nieces and nephews: Daniel, Lauren, David, Stephen, Daniel, Kelsey and Zachary; and several cousins.

A public visitation will be held Saturday, April 24, at the Beers & Story Funeral Home, 1475 North Main St., Palmer, MA from 3-4 p.m.  A private memorial service will follow.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Culinary Arts Scholarship Fund in memory of Michael S. Bernat c/o Pathfinder Regional Vocational High School, 240 Sykes St., Palmer, MA 01069.