Bernard Alexander Rokosz

It is with profound sadness that the family of Bernard “Bernie” Alexander Rokosz announces his passing on May 10, 2026, at the age of 85. Bernard passed away peacefully at his home in Flushing, Michigan.

Bernard is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Veronica; his children, Stephanie (Scott) Trantham, Stephen (Rebecca) Rokosz; grandchildren, Jessica (Christopher) Peck, Joshua (Sarah) Trantham, Jarred Trantham, Stephen (Brookelyn) Rokosz, Jordan (Jacob) Germain; ten great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Caralyn, Charlotte, Aislyn, Harrison, Finn, Genevieve, Scotlyn, Gabriel, Grayson, and siblings; Elaine Proulx, and Andrew Rokosz Jr., as well as several other beloved family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew Sr. and Sophie Rokosz, sisters; Irene Johnston, and Lucille Jasura.

Born on March 12, 1941, in Standish Michigan, Bernie grew up helping on his family’s farm. Despite only finishing school through tenth grade, Bernie was the most knowledgeable man we knew. He was the family’s go to guy for anything we wanted to know. He was also the go to guy for anything we wanted to have made. A welder by trade, but also a skilled woodworker – if you had an idea, he could make it.

Bernie was known as The Storyteller of the family, although you could never be sure if the story was true or not because he was also quite the jokester. In fact, in the last family photo taken hours before his passing, when everyone else said “cheese”, Bernie chose to say “bologna”.

He loved his family above all else and gave the best hugs; ones that made bad days good, and good days even better. Hugs that you could sink in to and instantly feel how much he loved you.

Bernie loved hunting and was the designated chef at deer camp, his signature dish being “greasy potatoes”. He was an avid fisherman during anytime of the year, he could be found out on the water or ice always with his family and friends.

He also enjoyed golfing, gardening, and bowling.

A man of great faith, Bernard was active in Knights of Columbus serving as Grand Knight twice, as well as District Deputy, and Faithful Navigator. He was also a member of the Fourth Degree Color Corps. Even when attending in person became too difficult, he still made sure to watch Sunday Mass on TV.

Bernie retired as a Master Welder from Buick City in Flint, Michigan after 38 years. Prior to working for GM, Bernie worked as a welder for Defoe Shipbuilding Company in Bay City, Michigan. He also had a retirement gig working on the grounds team at Briar Ridge Golf Course in Montrose, Michigan.

He will be missed immensely by all who were lucky enough to know him.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Knights of Columbus Council #8669.

A funeral Mass will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 400 N. Saginaw St., Montrose, MI 48457 on June 11th, 2026, at 11:00 am.