Bernard J. Nolan

Bernard J. Nolan passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026 at the age of 96 years old. Bernard “Barney” Nolan was the oldest of four children born to Bernard F. and Josephine D. Nolan (nee Jankowski). He is survived by his sister, Bernadette, and his brother, Robert (Colleen) Nolan, Maureen Nolan, and numerous nieces and nephews. Known as “Uncle Corkle” to his nieces and nephews when they were kids, he excelled at getting them all laughing and riled up right before bedtime! He is preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife, Ruth, and his youngest brother, Richard.

While growing up, Barney worked for his father at the Brainard News Agency and attended Calumet High School. He loved playing baseball and pole vaulting. After high school graduation, Barney enlisted in the Air Force and served overseas during the Korean War from 1951 to 1955. At the end of his time of service, he attended North Central College in Naperville in 1955, eventually leaving to pursue his Real Estate Licensure and starting his own business, Nolan Appraisals.

Married to Ruth Burns, they shared a love for art, even taking painting classes together. They frequented the museums in Chicago. They loved going for a drive in the forest preserves and hunting for treasure at a thrift shop. They enjoyed regular road trips to Florida to see his parents. Family and friends were a big part of their lives together in the Oak Lawn community area.

Barney loved swimming and his local swimming pool friends became a lifeline as he aged. Days spent at the pool were his best days – he met so many great people. Barney was charming and opinionated - he loved a lively conversation. During Covid, when one of his friend groups couldn’t meet at the usual diner, they met on his driveway. Barney loved people, knew the details of friends going back 80 years, and was blessed to have so many generous people in his life. Through the kindness of his neighbors, especially Nancy, his friends and pool chauffeurs, Nikki, Brandi and Gary, his caregiver, Mary, and his friend, Gil, he was able to stay in his Oak Lawn home until age 93. At the VA Home in Manteno, he regularly bestowed his charm on the gracious and caring staff.

In his memory, consider making a donation to a local veteran’s organization (VFW) or tipping someone an extra 5 dollars. (He loved to give everyone a $5 tip!)

Interment will be private.