Bernard J. Leemreis

Bernard J. Leemreis, 88, of South Bend, peacefully departed on May 22, 2016 at home, surrounded by his loving family.  Bernard was born November 9, 1927 in Doetinchem, Netherlands to the late Bernard and Anneke (Velthuis) Leemreis. He was the oldest of three children, including his brother, the late John Leemreis; and his sister, Maria Visser, who survives.

After being raised in Haaksbergen, Netherlands, Bernard moved to Didam, Netherlands, where he completed two years of agriculture school, receiving a degree as a Horticulturist. Pursuing his dream for opportunity, he immigrated to America in 1948 on a freight boat.  Staying only briefly in New York, Bernard settled in St. Joseph, Minnesota. 

After 19 short months of being an American, he was drafted into the Korean War and served in the US Army, stationed in Germany in the second armored division APO 42. Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, he settled in Sutherland, Iowa as a farmer. 

Deciding to relocate to Indiana, Bernard met and married the love of his life, Dolores Wenzel in 1959.  As a devoted couple, they celebrated 56 years of marriage prior to Bernard’s death. In addition to his loving wife, Dolores of South Bend, he is survived by children, John Leemreis (Mary), Raymond Leemreis, Joseph Leemreis (Lori) and Maria Rothy (Chuck); six grandchildren, Ashley Leemreis, David Leemreis, Travis Leemreis, Aundraya Leemreis, Jarred Moen and Brandon Moen; one great grandchild, Adalina Benedict; one step-grandchild, Breanna Rothy; and one step-great grandchild Kingston Rothy. Their second oldest child, Christopher Leemreis, preceded them to heaven. 

Bernard worked as the Horticulturist for 34 years before retiring from St. Francis Convent in Mishawaka. After retirement, he enjoyed working 19 years for a private home owner completing various outdoor jobs.   

Bernard will be remembered for his enthusiasm and energy when he danced Polkas and Waltzes at German establishments, as well as enjoying the outdoors maintaining landscaping.  

Funeral services for Bernard will be held at 9:00 am Saturday, May 28, 2016 in the Palmer Funeral Home - Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend. Rev. Bob Vale will officiate. Graveside services and burial will follow in Highland Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 - 8:00 pm Friday, May 27, 2016 in the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be donated to Heart to Heart Hospice, 620 W. Edison Road, Suite 122, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Online condolences may be left for the Leemreis family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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