Obituary of Bernie M. Senn

With deep sorrow we announce that Bernard M. Senn (81), of Merritt Island, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on March 16th, 2024. Bernard, fondly known as Bernie, was born on May 10th, 1942, in Chester, Pennsylvania to Mary F. Drybala and Michael B. Senn. Bernie was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Rose Michalciewic. After graduating from Saint James High School in 1960, Bernie joined the United States Air Force. His first military assignment was Homestead Air Force Base, Florida where he met Sandra Konsky, his first cherished wife. Sandra and Bernie married June 16th, 1962, and were the proud parents of Denise, Patricia (Tricia) and Richard (Rick). Their years together were filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. Throughout his life, Bernie honored Sandra’s legacy after her passing. Later, Bernie found love again with Karen Miga, who became a devoted partner when they married September 10th, 2011. Together, they shared a bond of companionship and support, creating new memories and cherishing each day they had together.

His career in the Air Force spanned assignments to Florida, New York, North Dakota, Texas, Mississippi, Washington State, Utah, Oklahoma, and a remote tour on the small island of Shemya in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. While in the Air Force, Bernie served in differing occupations: he was a firefighter, an electronic computer systems technician. Of note, he was a radar technician on the Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft when it was first introduced into service as part of the 552nd Airborne Warning and Control Wing Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. After numerous deployments to Saudi Arabia, he eventually retired from the Air Force as a Master Sergeant. Bernie continued his service by working as a government civil servant before joining the business sector to work for Nokia. He was a true Renaissance man whose varied interests included: motorcycle riding, skiing, sailing, wine making, and even growing vegetables. He enjoyed tinkering in his garage and was a very skillful handy man who could fix anything from cars to household appliances. He was also content with a beer or cocktail and socializing with family and friends. Most importantly, Bernie was a beloved husband, father, and friend. Bernie’s life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family, his kind-hearted nature, and his infectious sense of humor that brought joy to all who knew him. As we bid farewell to Bernie, we find solace in the countless memories he leaves behind and the positive impact he made on his family. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Bernie will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Karen. His memory lives on with his daughters Denise and Tricia, and his son Rick. Bernie will also be fondly remembered as Grandpa by his nine grandchildren, Mike, Zach, Ryan, Zane, Taylor, Coltrane, Megan, Sean, Kylie, and by three great grandchildren Marley, Maggie Jo, and McCoy. He is also survived by his sister, Rose Marie Cuff who resides in Delaware.

A funeral service will be held in remembrance of Bernie’s life on March 27, 2024, 11:00 am at Beckman-Williamson, 5400 Village Drive, Rockledge, Florida 32955. Deacon Mike will be officiating. Family and friends are welcomed to a gathering with refreshments immediately after the service from 11:45 to 12:45.

In lieu of flowers, those who so desire may make a memorial donation to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Rest in peace Bernie. You will be loved and dearly missed but never forgotten.