Obituary of Richard Andrew St. Bernard

Richard “Rich” Andrew St. Bernard was born on December 2, 1957 in Monroe, Michigan. He is one of three sons born from the union of the late Darwin and the late Joanne (Miller) St. Bernard.

Richard married the love of his life, Debra Hamrick on July 23, 1983. Together they raised two beautiful children. Rich worked hard to care for his family while being employed through Gerdau Steel for 34 years. He loved his family, his bike and football. Rich cherished his children and grandchildren and especially enjoyed watching them play sports. He was their biggest fan and always the loudest on the sidelines. Rich left a football legacy, wearing the number 38, that was carried out through his son and now continuing through his grandson. Rich enjoyed taking trips with his friends and his wife on his Harley, often cruising to good tunes, with Bob Segar’s Turn the Page being one of his favorites. To the common eye, Rich was no one to ‘mess with’, but to all that knew him, a giant teddy bear who gave the best hugs. He was very outgoing, loved by all and always brought the laughter and the noise.

Richard Andrew St. Bernard, age 59 of LaSalle passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 24, 2017 at home. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by his infant brother Timothy St.Bernard and two canine companions: Katie and Sammie.

To cherish his memory, Rich leaves his beloved wife of thirty-four years: Debi (Hamrick) St. Bernard; daughter: Nicole (Jeff) Kansier; son: Richard A. St. Bernard II; brothers: Steven (Linda) St. Bernard; four grandchildren: Jeffrey, Gracie, Josh and Makenna; and many extended family and friends.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Friday, September 29, 2017 at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2017 at 11:00am with Pastor Roy Southerland of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Rich will take his Final Ride with his biking brothers following the service to a luncheon given by MMBC.

Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, share or photo or send a floral tribute by visiting www.merklefs.com.