Bernard J. Cudahy

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Bernard James Cudahy, 85, of Liberty, MO and formerly of Michigan and Wisconsin, passed away on December 31, 2018 after a long illness. He was born on August 21, 1933 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the son of Bernard G. Cudahy and Virginia L. Smith.

Bernie graduated from Oshkosh High School in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He then entered the U.S. Navy, graduating in 1952 from the U.S. Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, Illinois and serving as a member of Squadron VS-27 of the Naval Air Station in Norfolk, Virginia. After returning from the Navy, he attended Wisconsin State College. On June 21, 1958, he married Libby Lee Fitzgarrald with whom he had four children.

While living in Marquette, Michigan, Bernie began working for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan. He was active in the Jaycees, the Boy Scouts of America, the First Presbyterian Church, and coached youth hockey. After moving to Midland, Michigan, he continued to coach and was instrumental in growing the hockey league there. He played slow puck hockey, coached girls’ track,  played lots of golf, and was active in the American Legion and the Midland Elks Club where he helped cook and serve many perch dinners on Fridays. His annual pilgrimage with his buddies to  hunting camp was always a highlight of his year. He retired in 1989 after a long career with Blue Cross and Blue Shield. During retirement, he liked to fish, camp, travel, and watch Green Bay  Packers games. He also coached girls’ basketball and worked with a youth jobs program while living in Arkansas and Missouri.

Bernie was preceded in death by wife Libby Lee Cudahy, parents Bernard and Virginia Cudahy, fatherand mother-in-law Clarence and Janet Fitzgarrald, brothers Patrick Cudahy and Brian Cudahy, sisters Elaine Proctor and Evelyn Cudahy, and second wife Patricia Cudahy (married October 7, 1989). Survivors include children Jim Cudahy, Laura (Marty) Kangiser, Scott (Sue) Cudahy, and Jacqueline Cudahy (Brent Davis); 1 grandchild and 1 great-grandchild; brothers Gordon (Lynn) Cudahy, Craig Cudahy; sisters Virginia Pflanzer, Karen (Jack) Kennedy, Vivian (Gary) Kohler, Christy Cudahy; brother-inlaw David (Joan) Fitzgarrald; step-children Tony Trumbull and Linda Eberline; brother-in-law Bill (Sandy) Traver; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff and residents of Our Lady of Mercy Country Home for the love and care given to Bernie over the past two years. Bernie wished to have his ashes buried next to wife Libby in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; a graveside service will be held in the spring.

Condolences

  1. Craig Cudahy on January 9, 2019 at 7:19 pm

    With deepest sympathy as you remember your Dad



  2. Gordon Cudahy on January 10, 2019 at 10:48 am

    Our deepest sympathy at the loss of your father. May your fond memories comfort you during this time of sadness.



  3. Laura Auriemma on January 12, 2019 at 1:39 pm

    With thoughts and prayers for the family! May your Dad Rest In Peace.
    Dan & Laura Auriemma



  4. Karen Russell on January 12, 2019 at 4:58 pm

    Laura, sending love and prayers to you and your family! Loved Bernie so much!



  5. Cathy Turner on January 12, 2019 at 5:14 pm

    Laura,

    Prayers to you and your family! You are in my thoughts during this difficult time!

    Cathy & Craig Turner



  6. Pam Kissick on January 12, 2019 at 5:18 pm

    Laura, i’m so sorry for the loss of your dad. I remember him from many years ago. He had a big personality and a great sense of humor. I know you will miss him. Pam Brumm Kissick



  7. Anita Flora on January 12, 2019 at 8:11 pm

    Laura, I’m sorry to hear of your father’s passing. My thoughts are with you during this sad time.



  8. Jennifer Hunter on January 14, 2019 at 10:54 am

    Dear Laura, I’m so sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. Gosh he made it a long way didn’t he? Many condolences to you and your family



  9. John Lynch on January 14, 2019 at 11:11 am

    Laura I am so sorry for your loss if your Dad. You and your family are in my prayers. Jack



  10. Gary Jeffers on January 14, 2019 at 3:34 pm

    Scott,
    Your Dad certainly had a full and active life. His influence must have impacted many lives beyond just his family. If you other than direct family members will be invited to his graveside service this spring, please keep us informed. At God’s peace be with you and Sue.



  11. Kirk Sutliff on January 16, 2019 at 4:23 pm

    All of us From the early MAHL remember him in fond memories…and the MFSC…Rest in Peace and say hello to all who are there…



  12. Bill McIntosh on March 29, 2019 at 3:19 pm

    So sorry to see that Bernard passed away. I had many conversations and lunches with him while he worked for Blue Cross. He used to get his company cars through me as I was the fleet administrator for Blue Cross. I lost touch with him after he retired. He was really a nice person.



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