Bernard E. Witasick

Three war veteran, Marine 1st Sergeant Bernard Witasick, died October 3rd at age 94. He was
born in 1926 in Shamokin, Pennsylvania, and traveled around the world during his 26 years in
the United States Marine Corp.
At age 17, he and his best friend, Leo Fitzgerald, enlisted in World War II. 1st Sergeant
Witasick fought at Saipan and Okinawa and in many other battles. After WWII ended, he
brought the bodies of Marines back to their families and arranged military funerals.
While stationed at Great Lakes Naval Base, he met North Chicago native MaryAnn Miletich.
They married in 1949 and had one son, Bernard. His family relocated around the States while
he continued with assignments in Korea and VietNam. He was a combatant in both wars and
also served as an advisor to the Government of Viet Nam for which he was awarded their
Medal of Honor.
In retirement, he and his family moved back to the area and stayed until his death. He was a
member of St. Dismas Catholic Church and attended Mass daily until his health no longer
permitted. He was a talented mechanic and enjoyed working on his cars. He loved to fish and
hunt and continued hunting trips with his boyhood friend until Mr. Fitzgerald’s death.
He was predeceased by his parents Leo and Mary Witasick, his wife and brother John. He is
survived by his son, sister Margaret Bobolic, brother Gerald and many nieces and nephews.