Bernard Francis O'Haire passed away July 16, 2003. He was born June 4, 1926, in San Francisco, the son of the late Thomas and Sarah O'Haire. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, June; his sister, Margaret (Peg) Polidori; daughters Karen and Ann; son Neal; daughter-in-law Debbie; grandchildren Matt, Melissa, Kevin and Colin; great-grandchild Marcus; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Sean Michael, and two brothers, Edward and Jack.

 

Bernie graduated from Saint Ignatius High School and was a pitcher on the varsity baseball team. He was scouted and drafted by both the Saint Louis Cardinals and Uncle Sam; Uncle Sam won. Bernie graduated from the Merchant Marine Officers' program at King's Point, served as a merchant marine officer in World War II, and after the war, sailed in relief convoys to Europe for the fledgling United Nations.

 

After the war he returned to San Francisco, became a San Francisco firefighter and met and married Dorothy June Barich. While a firefighter, he put himself through San Francisco State University, played semi-pro baseball and earned his degree and teaching credential. His concept of helping people and hard work led to a career as an educator. He continued his education, earning a master's degree at the University of San Francisco. He moved his family to Napa and for over 30 years worked with the Napa Valley Unified School District as a teacher, counselor, coach and dean. Bernie had a love of history and sports, which he brought alive for his students and players. He had a great love of family and friends and would do anything to help others.

 

He enjoyed working with young people with the Columbia Parks Boys Club, Boy Scouts of America and the CCD classes at St. John's Catholic Church. Bernie was director of the Saint Thomas Aquinas Chapter of Saint Vincent DePaul for over 35 years. He spent many happy hours with family and friends. He always enjoyed working on his home and in his garden. In retirement, he and June traveled around the world. Bernie was a member of SIRS #65 and the Friday Morning Bagel Group (the ROMEOs). He was also an expert woodcarver and created many works of art.

 

A funeral Mass will be held today at 11 a.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 2725 Elm St., Napa. Reception to follow at the family home.In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Bernard O'Haire Scholarship Fund, c/o NVUSD, 1015 Kaiser Rd., Napa, CA 94558.Arrangements are under the direction of the Claffey and Rota Funeral Home, Napa.