Obituary of Bernard A. Hoehn

Bernard (Bernie) Hoehn, of Rome, passed away January 18, 2011. He was born in Rome, NY on July 24, 1924 to Marion Neiss and the former Mayor of Rome Alfred M. Hoehn. Bernie attended Saint Aloysius Academy and later enlisted in the Army Air Corp where he was assigned to the 492nd bomb group as a nose gunner on a B-24 Liberator. He received several medals and citations for his service during World War II including the Purple Heart for wounds received during a mission over Germany. He was a member of several organizations in Rome including the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He was employed at Griffiss Air Force base and retired from the 416th Civil Engineering Squadron in 1988. Bernie truly enjoyed life and all that it had to offer. He was a firm believer that you could and should bring light to the darkest day. He often helped others at his own expense with no thought of repayment. He could walk into a room full of strangers and leave with that many more new friends. He was a very creative man talented with his hands who loved to draw and create objects out of wood. He was an avid reader and conversationalist. He was a great man who was devoted to his family and friends. He was an even better father and friend. Never concerned about himself, even when he was at his sickest, he would wake every morning and say, " today is going to be a great day; I love you and be careful." His ability to see good in everything and to be positive and enjoy life has inspired others to do the same. He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will never be forgotten. His legacy of laughter, joy and compassion will be carried on in all those that he touched. He is one of the last gentlemen from an era where family, friends and your fellow man were held in high regard. Bernie and his late wife Helen Kosh, had four wonderful children Bernita, Daniel, Terry and Patrick who loved them dearly. They along with the 12 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews will continue to strive to live their lives in the manner that he taught them. To love your family, love thy neighbor, seek the good in life and when the good is hard to find bring it yourself. A private service will be held by his immediate family at St. Peters Cemetery. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society and St. Peters Church, Rome, NY. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. Please offer online tributes or light a candle at: BarryFuneralHome.com