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1929 Bernie 2024

Bernard Paul Nevel

December 8, 1929 — December 7, 2024

Phoenix, AZ

With deep sorrow, the family of Dr. Bernard Paul Nevel announces his passing on December 7, 2024, one day shy of his 95th birthday. Born in South Bend, Indiana, Bernard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, known for his kindness, wisdom, humor, and love.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Etta Nevel, and his five children: Carol Reid (late Gary Reid), Susan Ruvio (Barry), Nancy Pollak (Dale), Maura Scherrer (Dan), and Adam Nevel (Kathryn). Bernard was a proud grandfather to Samantha Peterson (Chase), Amanda Fox (Matt), Austin Pollak (Erica), Alex Pollak (Brielle), Samson Pollak, Alyson Ruvio, Sebastian and Finley Scherrer, and Vida, Asher, and Talia Nevel. He was also a great-grandfather to Oliver, Noah, and Miles Peterson, and Jayden Fox.

Born to Jewish European immigrants, Maurice and Selma Nevel, Bernard was the youngest of three brothers, including the late Melvin and Lloyd Nevel. He grew up working in his father’s store, Nevel’s Clothing for Men and Boys, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for fashion. Bernard attended Butler and Indiana University before earning his doctorate from the Illinois College of Optometry in 1955. He devoted over 50 years to the South Bend community as an optometrist.

Later in his career, Bernard partnered with his lifelong friend Richard Weiss at The Michiana Eye Center. Along with Kevin Danahey, another close colleague, and many others, Bernard helped build a trusted practice. His dedication earned him a loyal following, with many patients willing to wait months for an appointment. Bernard continued practicing into his 80s, a testament to his passion and commitment.

Bernard’s contributions earned him the Lifetime Service Award from the Illinois College of Optometry Alumni Association in 2020, as well as the Distinguished Service in Optometry Award and Golden Eagle Award from the Indiana Optometric Association.

Outside of work, Bernard found joy with his family. Whether cheering for his favorite teams (Hoosiers, Fighting Irish, Bulldogs, and Cubs), playing golf, fishing on Hamlin Lake, or enjoying a glass of Scotch and Etta’s lemon meringue pie, he was happiest surrounded by loved ones.

Known for his wisdom and thoughtful advice, Bernard brought humor and warmth to everyone he met. An avid traveler and lover of fine dining, he created lasting memories with family and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Bernard’s life will be held at The Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 10, followed by burial at The Hebrew Orthodox Cemetery. A reception will follow at The Jewish Federation at approximately 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Illinois College of Optometry Bernard Nevel Scholarship Fund, https://www.ico.edu/make-a-gift,The Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, https://thejewishfed.org/how-to-help/donateform.html, or the IU Foundation, https://give.myiu.org/homepage?src=iuf_website.

Bernard’s legacy of love, wisdom, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May his memory be a blessing.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Funeral Service

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)

Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley

3202 Shalom Way, South Bend, IN 46615

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