Bernard Vincent Gainey, age 65, resident of 18705 East Forest Road, Cambridge Springs, PA died Saturday, May 9, 2009 at Hamot Medical Center in Erie, PA after a two months illness. Born in Pittsburgh on April 2, 1944, he was a son of the late Bernard V. Gainey, Sr. and Betty Thoma Gainey. He had lived at his present address for the past 36 years. On May 28, 1971 he married the former Nancy Lee Fleming and she survives.
Bernard was a veteran of the Viet Nam War serving in the US Army. After the service he was employed by the Urick Foundry in Erie for 12 years and then was employed by the Erie Zoo as an animal keeper for 23 years until his retirement in 2006. Bernard chose for himself a healthy lifestyle both in diet and in exercise. He was an avid bicycle rider and participated in several long distance tours in the New England States. He enjoyed horse back riding and was an enthusiastic NASCAR fan.
Surviving Bernard in addition to his wife of 37 years, are two brothers – Richard Gainey and his wife, Trish; and Michael Gainey and his wife Karen; two nephews – Richard Gainey and Justin Gainey all of Pittsburgh. Also surviving are several cousins.
Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 and are invited to attend funeral services there on Wednesday morning at 11:00. Monsignor Lawrence Speice, pastor of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Cambridge Springs will officiate. Interment will be in Venango Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Erie Zoo, 438 West 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508.
Bernie,
I am Shirley and Bob’s son. I will always remember the times you had spent with my family in Erie on the farm. You will be missed. I was young at the time, but the memories on the farm will be the times I will remember. My family sends their thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Bernie wills always be fondly remembered for his infectious smile!