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Bernard Cerone - Class of 1961
Submitted by Fran Olson Gustafson 1965 <fgustafson917@gmail.com> on 06/Dec/2024
71.223.65.174
 
 Bernard Patrick "Bernie" Cerone passed away peacefully at
his home in Newburgh, NY, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the age of 81.
Bernie is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Kristina Norgaard; his
children, Matt, Marcey and her husband Joe; his sister, Elaine, his nieces and
nephews; and his extended family of stepchildren and their spouses: Lisa and
Eric, Gordon and Lisha, Melissa and Jeff, Sarah and Mark, and Anna and Adnan. He
was a cherished grandfather to 11 grandchildren: Kathryn, Leah, Gavin, Cade,
Emma, Olivia, Ash, Grace, Toby, Kacy, and Annika—each of whom held a special
place in his heart.
A lifelong
resident of Newburgh, Bernie was born on April 17, 1943. He proudly served in
the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army from 1962 to 1965, a
chapter of his life he fondly recalled through vivid stories of camaraderie and
his passion for parachuting.
Bernie’s zest for life took him on journeys
across the globe. From his early days backpacking through Europe and Africa with
a guitar slung over his shoulder to later travels with Kristina during their 36
years together—most notably to Sweden and Italy—he embraced every adventure with
enthusiasm and curiosity.
A highly respected master electrician, Bernie
spent his career working with his hands and took immense pride in his craft. He
was also creatively talented, with an aptitude for languages, even learning
Swedish in preparation for his first visit with Kristina to see her family.
Though Bernie bravely endured many years of health challenges that altered
his active lifestyle of travel, golf, and other pursuits, he found joy in the
quieter moments—listening to music, watching the birds in his backyard, and
sharing stories with loved ones.
Bernie will be remembered for his
warmth, humor, and the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him.
Whether strumming his guitar, sharing a laugh, or simply enjoying the company of
family and friends, Bernie brought joy to all who knew him.
He will be
laid to rest in a private ceremony on Sunday, December 8th - April 17, 1943 ~
December 5, 2024
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