Helen V. Bernhard

Helen V. Bernhard, cherished mother, devoted community member, and faithful friend, passed away on March 26, 2026 at Fairmont Senior Living of Washington Township. 

Born on July 6, 1928 to the late Anthony and Helen Volk, Helen’s life was marked by love, kindness, and a tireless spirit that touched all who knew her.

A 1946 graduate of Randolph High School, Helen spent the early years of her marriage to her beloved husband, Dick, as a stay-at-home mom, lovingly raising her two daughters, Sandy and Cheryl. As her daughters grew and expanded their horizons, Helen extended her focus beyond the home by working as a resource center aide at Vandalia Butler High School.

Like her husband, Helen’s hands were never idle, and she found great satisfaction in sewing, quilting, and cross-stitching. These pursuits were both hobbies and a source of pride, and she frequently shared her beautiful handcrafted pieces with family and friends.Her proud involvement as a member of Epiphany Lutheran Church was a further testament to her faith and generosity, and her commitment to serving in their Food and Clothing Pantry revealed a heart deeply attuned to the needs of others.

Helen was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Richard “Dick” Bernhard, and her siblings Ruth Helm, Anthony Volk Jr., Betty Norvell, and Vivian Cemino, who now await her reunion beyond this world.She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Sandra (Dave Montgomery) and Cheryl (Ken) Pifer, who carry forward her enduring spirit; her brother, Thomas Volk M.D.; and her lifelong sister-in-law, Dolly Bernhard.Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Matthew (Linda), Michael, Emily (Michael), Molly (Brian), Abigail (Randy), and Timothy (Alison); her 16 great-grandchildren; and the many nieces and nephews who hold dear the memories of her kindness and warmth.

A visitation will be held from 10:00am to 11:00am on Friday, April 17, 2026 at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 6430 Far Hills Ave., in Dayton, where Helen's service will start at 11:00am. Following the service, Helen will be laid to rest with Richard at Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Helen's memory may be made to the Epiphany Lutheran Church Pantry.