Bernard J. Zierhut, age 80, a resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at the Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice Center in Sheboygan Falls.
Bernie was born on January 9, 1942 in Green Bay. He was the son of the late Manuel and Florence Walinski Zierhut. Bernie attended Lincoln High School and graduated with the class of 1960 and went on to school to be a certified meat cutter. He then became employed for the next 17 years as a meat cutter for ABC and Big Saver Food Markets. Bernie then found his true calling where he could use his gift of gab working as a sales representative for Riverside Seafoods and Melotte Meats. This is also where he made many friends he considered family. During semi-retirement Bernie took on a job as a driving instructor. On October 27, 1962 he married Mary I. Kopidlansky at Holy Innocents Catholic Church in Manitowoc.
Over the years Bernie enjoyed playing basketball and flag football but his true love was baseball. Whether on the field, in the stands or pitching wiffle balls to his grandson this is where he was the happiest. Bernie played baseball for many local establishments and in 2007 he took great pride when he was inducted into the Kenny’s Club Baseball Hall of Fame. Baseball was a huge part of his life-a dedicated Los Angeles Dodger fan through and through. When not on the field or watching a game, Bernie enjoyed listening to Elvis and going to the casino.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Zierhut, three daughters, Kim Moser, Tammy (Tom) Reich, and Jodi Zierhut; three grandchildren, Haley, Lexie, and Cameron Moser; nieces and nephews, Cindy (Al) Kadow, Tom (Rachel) Zucchi, Jeff (Katie) Zucchi, and Krista (Nate) Nygaard; along with other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Florence Zierhut and two sisters, Barbara Zucchi and Christine Andersen.
A private family service will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel.
A special thank you to all the staff at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice Center for the excellent care and compassion they showed Bernie during his last days.
A memorial fund is being established for a favorite charity in Bernie’s name. Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with arrangements.
