Bernard “Bernie” E. Schatz, 87, of Ogema, passed away at Clark County Rehab, due to Alzheimer’s, with his wife by his side.
Bernie was born on March 8, 1932 to Martin and Otilla (Locks) Schatz in Ashland. He graduated from Ondossagon High School in Ashland. He earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture from UW-River Falls and his Master’s of Science from UW-Madison. He also attended North Dakota State University and UC-Berkley as a recipient of National Science Grants. He taught middle school in Port Wing, Beloit, and Minneapolis before retiring from teaching. He then went to work for the Minneapolis Post Office, where he worked in Mechanical Maintenance, installing the bar code machines for envelopes until his retirement. He married Barbara A. Andree at the Ogema Baptist Church on June 8, 1957, she survives.
Bernie loved to spend time on the Ogema farm, caring for his honey bees, tapping maple trees, cutting firewood, and playing with his great-grandchildren. Bernie was well traveled, having visited the Galapagos Islands, the 4 Scandinavian countries, and all the states except Alaska.
In addition to his wife Bernie is survived by his children, Randy (June) Schatz of Robinsdale, MN, and Ricky Schatz of Shakopee, MN; grandchildren, Teliah, Mariah, Lydiah, Andrew, and Amanda; 8 great-great-grandchildren. He is further survived by one sister Carole Provorse of San Antonio, TX and many other family and friends.
Bernie is preceded in death by his parents, and sibling, Carl, Ervin, and Doris.
Per Bernie’s request, his body was donated to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Hemer Funeral Services of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.
