Bernard "Bernie" Lenda

Bernard "Bernie" Lenda of Caro, age 88, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2014 at Covenant Health Care - Harrison in Saginaw after battling numerous physical maladies. Bernie was born March 7, 1926 in Sebewaing, the son of the late Walter and Cecilia (Stopczynski) Lenda. After completing his education, Bernie enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard serving aboard the CGC Colfax until the end of the war. After his military service and working for Chrysler Motor Company, Bernie began a twenty year career with the Hamtramck Police Department, rising to the rank of Sergeant prior to his retirement. Upon his separation, he worked as an investigator for the Tuscola County Prosecutor's office before permanently hanging up his hand cuffs. In 1966, Bernie married Joann Cockerill, taking her as well as her six children into his life, remaining committed to them and his grandchildren until his passing. Bernie was actively involved in Conservative Politics, the Mt. Moriah Lodge #226 F&AM, the Caro Rotary Club, and was a dedicated "Shriner" in addition to the many local causes he supported. He is survived by Joann and her children, Bob Stevenson of Caro, Dale (Linda) Stevenson of Caro, Kelly (Don) Flagg of Haslett, Bill (Kim) Stevenson of Caro, Lisa Sanders of Caro and Mandy Knox of Caro; grandchildren, Ty, Christopher (Meagan), Kraig (Jinyi), Karla, Jocelyn, Ali, T.J., Meghann, Evan, Katie, Caleb and Madison; great-grandchildren, Magdalyn, Remington and Declan; his sisters, Anna Lenda of Caro, Welda (Darl) Gilbert of Warren and Irene Krug of Bad Axe; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bernie was preceded in death by siblings, Edward, Josephine (Schwartz), John, Helen (Michalic), Jenny (Schwartz), George, Pete and Harry. In keeping with Bernie's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being planned. Interment will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly at a later date.