Ronald "Ray" Bernardi

Ronald "Ray" Bernardi passed away in his home in the presence of family members on November 1st (All Saints Day) after battling Myelodysplastic Syndrome for eight years. Ray was born in Malden, MA on May 27, 1933, the son of A. Raymond and Rosamond Bernardi. He grew up in Malden, Everett and Charleston, MA. Ray enlisted in the Army at the age of eighteen and served as a paratrooper. After a brief hiatus from the service, Ray enlisted again for almost twenty years as a Navy Corpsman. Following his years of military service, Ray used his Master of Public Health Degree to secure various jobs as an Environmental Health Specialist, including work as a health inspector and hospital administrator.

On June 8, 1984, Ray married Janice Johnston and this year they celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary. They had resided in Prescott for twenty-six years before moving to Chandler just two months ago. Ray had many talents and interests, including a passion for golf, flying (he was a private pilot), playing poker and traveling (cruises). He was member of the VFW, the American Legion and the Elks. He was also known for making a superb spaghetti sauce. Most notably, Ray was a very generous person with a great sense of humor.

Ray will be deeply missed by his spouse, Janice (Johnston) Bernardi; children, Jerry Bernardi, John (Bridget) Bernardi, Kim (Kevin) Hayes, Danny (Linda) Bernardi; sister Kathleen (Joseph) Koneski; brother, Michael Rocchi, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren (with one more on the way).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any contributions be sent to Disabled American Veterans at DAV.org (indicate that donation is dedicated) or mailed to DAV Gift Planning, 860 Dolwick Dr., Erlanger, KY. If "Ray Bernardi" is indicated on the check's memo line, any funds donated in his name will be marked in his honor for Arizona DAV services.

A Memorial Service for Ray will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery at 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd. Chandler, AZ 85248.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyofthesunfuneralhome.com for the Bernardi Family.