Bernard Samuel Gath

Bernard Samuel Gath was born in Johnston, Rhode Island on September 21, 1930 to Leonard and Marion Gath. He passed away at home surrounded by family in Hemet on November 29, 2012. Bernard was better known as "Sam" to his friends and family. Sam attended Mount Pleasant High School in Rhode Island. Sam was a very proud man who served his country in the United States Navy for 25 years. With only a GED, he joined the service in 1947 at age 17 and retired as a LCDR in 1973. His leadership, willingness to train others and hard work allowed him to reach this honorable rank in the Navy. Sam was married to the love of his life, Gloria, for 50 wonderful years. He was an avid fisherman, loved to garden and enjoyed shooting in his free time. He was involved with the VFW, the Wounded Warriors Project and The Retired Officers Association. Sam was well liked and enjoyed being around people, most importantly his grandchildren. Sam is survived by his 3 daughters Kristine Peters, Julayne Gath and Barbara Fuller, brothers, Larry and Richard, sisters Marion Carlton and Florence Paquette, 3 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Gath and his namesake grandson, Byron Samuel Lenox, brothers Leonard, William and Robert, and sister Avis Szelka.