Bernhart W. Nelson, age 90, passed away on December 13, 2023.  Born in Elizabeth, NJ on January 7, 1933, he was the son of the late Alice (Briant) and Walter Nelson.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Joanne M. Nelson (Salsberg); his three children, Lynda Cain and her husband Barry of Framingham, MA, Bruce Nelson and his wife Uta of Atlanta, GA, and Barbara Martin and her husband Andrew of Hackettstown, NJ; six cherished grandchildren, Brian, Megan, Clara, Gavin, Kevin, Kelly and her husband Brian; his sister Nancy Heines of Tequesta, FL; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was predeceased by his sister, Doris Kumlin, of Hopkinton, MA.

Bernhart was proud of his service in the Navy during the Korean War as an Electrician’s Mate.  He graduated from Rutgers University with a Masters Degree in electrical engineering.  He spent much of his career at ITT Avionics as an electrical engineer.  In the interval between employment at ITT, he owned and operated North Pole Insulation.  Known as “Bern” or “Bernie” to friends and family, he was an avid fisherman, golfer, and do-it-yourself enthusiast.  He always had a project to work on around the house. Bern also had a passion for watching movies and listening to oldies music.  He enjoyed spending time on Damariscotta Lake and would never turn down the opportunity for a lobster dinner, ice cream, or diner breakfast.

A memorial service in celebration of Bern’s life will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 213 Main St., Hackettstown, NJ.  Honoring Bern’s request, there will be a time during the memorial service to share remembrances and stories for those who wish to do so. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Wells-Hussey American Legion Post #42, 527 Main St. Damariscotta, ME 04543 or Washington Emergency Squad P.O. Box 4 Washington, NJ 07882.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown NJ 07840.  Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.cochranfuneral.com