William "Bill" Bernich, 89, of New Rochelle, NY, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, remembered for his kindness, loyalty and devotion to those he loved.
Born on May 9, 1936, to Matilda and Domenick Bernich in New York, NY, Bill graduated from All Hollows High School and went on to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves. He then attended Manhattan College, where he graduated as Salutatorian with Epsilon Sigma Pi honors. After graduating, Bill built a successful career in corporate finance marked by leadership, integrity and dedication.
In 1958, Bill married the love of his life, Joan Paterno. Together, they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage, raising a family built on love, faith, and laughter. Bill and Joan were inseparable partners in all aspects of life, and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled.
Bill will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to family, his strong will and generous heart. He enjoyed music, gardening, golf, travel, sporting events, time with friends and a good meal, especially Joan's cooking. They shared over 50 years together as members of the Westchester Country Club in Rye, NY and as parishioners of St. Pius X Church in Scarsdale, NY. His greatest joy came from family gatherings, watching his children and grandchildren grow, and celebrating life's milestones together.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; their three daughters: Carla, Lisa (Robert) and Michele (Fred); his cherished grandchildren: Ryan, Angelica and Matthew; and his sister: Sr. Joan of the Marist Missionary Sisters.
A service honoring Bill's life will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne, NY, on January 24, 2026, at 11:00 A.M.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Bill's memory.
To send flowers to the family in memory of William Bernich, please visit our flower store.Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel at Gate of Heaven Cemetery
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