Bernard Charles Panovich

He was born March 18, 1948, in Bedford, Ohio, to parents John and Ann (Dvorak) Panovich. Bernie graduated from Bedford High School in 1965. His education continued at Max Hayes Trade School and the Cleveland Engineering Institute.

Bernie was an exceptional tool maker and designer draftsman at General Motors in Lordstown for 30 years. His friends called him a “genius draftsman." Bernie earned his real estate license and after retirement became an agent with Century 21 Archer Realty.

He was a master martial artist with a 2nd Dan black belt in Taekwondo. Bernie felt most at peace in nature – camping, fishing and admiring wildlife. He also enjoyed traveling and was an avid reader, always carrying a book.

As a philosopher deeply concerned with humanity, Bernie lived his life by the tenets that we are all one, that we must live in accordance to the unbroken wholeness of all things; that true intelligence comes from a silent mind, and that love bears all things. Most of all, he deeply loved his family, and everything he did, he did for them.

He is survived by his loving wife Bonnie (Markle) Panovich, who he married October 29, 1966, and his children Sandra Panovich, Dawn (Gabe) Carrington, and Steven Panovich. His memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren Emily Dye, Matthew Craft, Adam (Kennedy) Craft, Jessica (Greg) Peters, Gabe (Rachel) Carrington Jr., and Iva Carrington, as well as his great-grandchildren Harlyn Roper, Paisley Craft, Wesley Craft, Josiah Carrington, Michael Carrington, Cadance, Marielle, and Ares Peters. He was preceded in death by his brother Jack Panovich, his sisters Joan Yaros and Carol Morris, and his parents John and Ann Panovich.

His wishes for cremation are being honored and a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Peter of the Fields Catholic Church, 3487 Old Forge Road, Rootstown, with a time of fellowship following. His final resting place will be St. Peter of the Fields Cemetery.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bernie’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org