Bernie Allen Condon, known affectionately to all as Bernie, departed this earthly realm on the 29th of May, 2024, his soul taking flight in the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he first drew breath on the 19th of September, 1957. His life's journey began as the cherished son of the late Burnett Condon and Leona (Buck) Bates, and it was in these familiar surroundings that he did close his eyes for the final slumber.
In the chronicles of his life, Bernie was a man of mirth and munificence, his hands forever engaged in the art of repair and creation. A graduate of Lowell High School in the year of our Lord 1975, he applied his learned skills in the noble trade of maintenance and small machine repair, a vocation he pursued with diligence and pride through the many years of his industrious life.
Bernie's heart was ever at home in the grandeur of nature. He found solace in the gentle whisper of the river as he cast his line, seeking the elusive finned creatures below. In the tender care of blossoms and blooms, he found a kindred spirit, nurturing life in the manifold colors of the earth's own beauty.
He leaves behind his wife Sabrina; children Laura and Sean (Krystal), who will carry forth his legacy. His grandchildren, Cypress Condon-Struble, Zayne Cooper, and Ivy Jean. Bernie's kinship extends to his siblings Rick (Jodie) Seese, Judy (Greg) Allchin, Teresa (Rick) Perry, and he joins in the heavens his late sister Debra Peasley. His life was further enriched by many nieces and nephews, each a blessing to him.
For in the grand play of existence, Bernie played his part with grace and good humor. His was a life not merely lived, but lived to the fullest, and with a love of life that was as infectious as it was genuine.
Now, as he embarks upon his final journey, let us hold him in our thoughts as he once held his fishing rod at dawn—poised, at peace, and ever hopeful for the wonder of the catch. And in his words no matter the circumstance, "it is what it is".
As we bid farewell to Bernie, let us not be sad, but rather celebrate the fullness of his days among us. His laughter echoes in the halls of remembrance, his generosity blooms in the gardens of our hearts, and his handy touch remains in the objects and lives he made whole.
Thus, we lower the curtain on the final act of Bernie Allen Condon, a man of humor, generosity, and skill. May his story be told with fondness, and his memory be cherished as the precious gift that it is. Let the legacy of his laughter, the warmth of his giving heart, and the craftsmanship of his continue in your mind and spirit.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024 at American Legion, 69 North Bridge St., Saranac, MI 48881 from 4:00-8:00PM.
Memorials are suggested to Corewell Health Palliative Care and Hospice, 750 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.