Bernard Breehl

Bernard “Ben” Breehl, age 89, of New Philadelphia passed away Thursday, July 3, 2014, in Aultman Hospital at Canton due to complications following surgery in March.

Ben was born at New Philadelphia on May 21, 1925 to the late Charles and Mary (Luther) Breehl.

He proudly served his country during World War II as an Airplane Armorer Gunner in the United States Army Air Force and received an Honorable Discharge on October 3, 1945. Upon returning from the service, Ben met and married the love of his life, the former Patricia Fait, on April 22, 1950. He then proceeded to build the house where they lived their entire married life.

Ben was employed by I.F. Manufacturing, retiring after more than 30 years. He greatly enjoyed his golden years of retirement for over 26 years, often commenting on how he ever found the time to go to work.

He was a life-long member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church at New Philadelphia and during his younger years, was an avid bowler and fisherman.

For many years, Ben meticulously maintained an impressive vegetable garden, graciously sharing his harvest with family, friends and neighbors.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Patricia; son Michael Breehl of Dover; daughter Kimberly Breehl of North Canton; sister, Pauline Bundich of Massillon; brother, Joe Breehl of Bakersville and his little pet, Yip.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Carl Breehl, Charles Breehl and James Breehl as well as a son, Jeffrey Breehl, who passed away in 1976.

The family will receive friends on Monday, July 7, 2014 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM in the Linn-Hert Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia where a Christian Wake Service will begin at 7:45 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Jeff Coning on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at 10:00 AM in Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial with military honors will follow in Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia. Following services, all are invited to share in a meal and fellowship in the Geib Family Center, adjacent to the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in Bernard’s name may be directed to Boys Town National Headquarters, PO Box 8000, Boys Town, NE 68010, an organization he supported throughout his life.