Bernard Switzer

BERNARD SWITZER Hiawatha Bernard Earl Switzer, 91, of Hiawatha, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2016, at Hiawatha Care Center. Funeral services: 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories in Cedar Rapids, with visitation one hour before the service. Burial: Olin Cemetery, with military honors. Bernard was born May 1, 1925, the son of Bliss and Velma (Jones) Switzer in rural Olin. He graduated from Olin High School, Class of 1942. In school, Bernard played baseball and basketball. He loved music and enjoyed singing in school plays and weddings. Bernard served in the U.S. Army in northern Europe during World War II. He was very proud of his military service. After an honorable discharge, he found work at Wilson Foods until retirement. Bernard loved to dance to big band music. While at a dance, he met Ruth Martin. They were married March 28, 1947, in Olin. Bernard greatly loved his family. He was a caring and concerned husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed by his many friends and family. Survivors include his wife, Ruth; daughters, Bonnie (Arnie) Reif, Beckie (Greg) Williams, Joy (Kent) Jackson and Susan Preston; son, Steven (Jenny) Switzer; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and sister, Beverly Eyestone. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Kurt Reif; brother and best friend, Donavon Switzer; and sister, Bonnie Mae. Memorial donations may be directed to a charity of your choice in memory of Bernard. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.