Bernard John Urlaub

Bernard Urlaub, M.D., passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the age of 81, from restrictive fibrotic lung disease caused by COVID.

Bernard was born February 17, 1944, in Jamestown, North Dakota, to Marcella (Keltgen) and Edward Urlaub. He later moved with his family to Walhalla, North Dakota, where he graduated from Walhalla High School. He went on to attend the University of North Dakota and later earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Texas Medical School in 1970.

Dr. Urlaub proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the Medical Corps of the United States Navy from 1971 to 1973, receiving an honorable discharge. A true patriot, Bernard always flew the American flag at his home, was an avid reader of U.S. history, and enjoyed lively political discussions with friends.

For forty years, Bernard was in private practice as a cardiovascular surgeon in San Diego, California. He practiced at Alvarado Hospital and Medical Center and Sharp Grossmont Hospital, dedicating his career to the care and well-being of his patients. After retiring from surgical practice, he continued serving others as a physician medical consultant for the State of California Social Services for nearly three years.

Throughout his adult life, Bernard cherished annual hunting trips to North Dakota and Wyoming with his father, brother, and uncles. A skilled and successful hunter, he brought home many waterfowl and deer over the years. He spent many weekends camping and fishing with his son, full of adventure and exploration along the path to Eagle Scout. He also had a lifelong love of golf; one of his earliest jobs was mowing the course and maintaining the greens at Walhalla Country Club. Bernard was a devoted fan of the San Diego Padres and rarely missed a home game, whether attending in person or watching on television. He would go to great lengths to share his love for baking and eating rhubarb pie.

He is survived by his significant other of more than forty years, Karen Lakota; his daughter, Julie Bartolacci (Barry) of Coppell, Texas, and their children Zachary, Josh, and Katie; his son, Ivan Urlaub (Diana) of Carrboro, North Carolina, and their children Sebastian and Adriena; his sister, Margaret Viebrock (Sid) of Waterville, Washington; his sister, Mary Jo Morrissey of Pullman, Washington; and his brother, Michael Urlaub (Claudia) of Gillette, Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Janet Urlaub.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Karen Lakota for the loving care she provided during the past several years. Her generosity, compassion, and devotion brought great comfort to Bernard and his family.

A Celebration of Life for Bernard will be held on Saturday, May 2 from noon to 4:00 pm at the El Cajon Mortuary in El Cajon, CA. Check the El Cajon Mortuary website for more details. Find Obituaries & Funeral Services | Dignity Memorial