Thomas Edward Berner

August 4, 1951 – April 10, 2026

Thomas E. “Bear” Berner, 74, of LaOtto, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Dupont Lutheran Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones, after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.

Tom was affectionately known to many as “Bear,” a nickname given to him early in life due to his famously grouchy reaction to being awakened. Over time, the name became a term of endearment among family and friends and took on even greater meaning as he became a deeply protective “papa bear” to those he loved.

He was born on August 4, 1951, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Edward and Mary (Shorter) Berner. He graduated from Bishop Dwenger High School with the Class of 1969. On May 16, 1981, he married Cheryl (Truelove) Berner at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ege, Indiana. Together, they were blessed with one daughter, Ashley Berner of LaOtto.

Tom retired from SuperValu in 2013 after nearly 35 years of dedicated service. He found joy in riding his Harley, admiring classic cars—especially his beloved ’57 Chevy—playing piano and guitar, woodworking, and dining at Red Lobster. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a colorful way with words all his own, often leaving those around him smiling. He cherished time spent with his family, including the special bond he had with his daughter’s cat, Jasper.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl; his daughter, Ashley; his sister, Noreen (Emil) Hegbli of Fort Wayne; his brother, Tim (Jane) Berner of Albion; his sisters-in-law, Phyl Lewis of Six Mile, SC, Lois Pippenger of LaOtto, and Marilyn McWhinney of LaOtto; his brother-in-law, Tom Truelove of Albion; and many nieces and nephews whom he adored. He was also blessed with dear friends and was truly humbled by the outpouring of support he received.

Above all else, Cheryl and Ashley were his world, and he remained devoted to them until the very end. While heartbroken by this tremendous loss, they are forever grateful to have had him as theirs.

A memorial gathering will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, April 24, 2026, at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a memorial contribution to the LaOtto Volunteer Fire Department.