Rudy A. Bernard

Haslett

Dr. Rudy Andrew Bernard passed away January 17, 2015 (age 84). He was born May 31, 1930 in New York, New York, and was preceded in death by his parents Andrew J. and Valerie (Bilodeau) Bernard. Dr. Bernard earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Montreal; worked, prayed, and studied in Trappist and Benedictine monasteries; received a doctorate from Cornell University; and completed postdoctoral studies at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He worked for Michigan State University starting in 1969 teaching physiology and conducting research. After transitioning to professor emeritus status, he continued to teach and pursue research until his death. He was devoted to his students and never lost his passion for research, teaching, and mentoring.

Dr. Bernard was a longtime and devoted member of St. John Church/St. Thomas Aquinas Parish. He was committed to his family, faith, music, literature, and MSU. Go Green!

He is survived by his wife Nancy B. Bernard, sons Andrew (Lisa) Bernard (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) and Daniel Bernard (Okemos, Michigan), daughter Susan (David) Maltbie (Ludington, Michigan), step-granddaughters Julia and Erin Maltbie, sister Ginette (Nick) Garafola (New York, New York), and sister-in-law Diane Bennett (Victor, New York).

A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, January 22, 2015, at St. John Church and Student Parish, 327 MAC, East Lansing, MI with the Rev. Mark Inglot officiating. The family will receive friends 2-4 & 6-8 PM Wednesday at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Avenue, East Lansing, MI. The Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 PM. The family will also receive friends Thursday at the church one hour prior to the service.

Those desiring, may make contributions to MSU College of Music, Music Building, 333 W. Circle Dr., East Lansing, MI 48824; or, St. John Church and Student Parish.

On-line condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com