Bernard William Suerken of Bristol went home to be with his loving Lord and Savior, peacefully on Thursday, August 11, 2016, at St Mary Medical Center, with his family by his side.

Born in Bristol, Bernard was the beloved husband of 54 years to Ida Rice Suerken. He was the devoted son of the late Bernard A. and Violet Butler Suerken and brother of the late Joan Suttoung.

Bernard has been a resident of Bucks County all of his life. He was a graduate of Delhaas High School, class of 1954. He proudly served his country, serving in  the United States Army as a PFC in the Tank Corps. Bernard’s professional career spanned many years; he worked as a Retail Manager for the Retail Clerks Union through out the Tri Sate Area from 1954 till his retirement in 1998. He was the former owner of Windsor Florist in Levittown. He was the “Trunk” of the Family Tree. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was also a huge fan of all the Philadelphia sports teams.

Bernard was a Charter and 23 year member of New Life Christian Church in Newtown. Life was full for Bernard, his love for family was evident, he followed  the example of Jesus and he and his wife Ida have opened their home as foster parents for over 11years as well as serving as a host family for teens from Estonia and Belarus, and never said “NO” and always made room at their table. He will be sadly missed by the many friends that he included as part of his Family.

In addition to his beloved wife, Bernard is survived by his dear children, Ida Detweiler (Byron), Butch Suerken (Dee), and Heather Cappel (Mel), his brother Harvey Suerken, and his sister Barbara Qualteria. He is also survived by his dear grandchildren: Bernie and Gerry Suerken, Andrea Detweiler, Dylan and Melvin Cappel. He is also survived by 2 great grandchildren; Gabriel and Emma. He was fortunate to have many brothers and sisters-in law, nieces and nephews and Countless friends who he considered family.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Bernard’s Life on Sunday August 21, from 4:30 pm until his Celebration at 6:00 pm at New Life Christian Church, 4 Freedom Dr. Newtown, with the Rev. Dr. Norman J. Leve, officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to New Life Christian Church at the above address.