John Bernard “Bernie” Sotak. Sr., after recently celebrating his 95th birthday, Bernie Sotak has taken his final bike ride into the sunset, passing away February 15, 2025.
Formerly of Star Junction, PA he has been a Peninsula resident for 65 years.
Bernie was a Navy veteran. He attended the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State University before completing his education and graduating from Christopher Newport College of the College of William and Mary. He retired from Newport News Shipbuilding in 1992.
He was born the son of Slovak immigrants. He was preceded in death by his parents, Julia and Joseph; brothers, Joe, Albert, Andy, and Edward; and sister, Mary. Nancy, his wife of 59 years, preceded him in death in 2022.
He is survived by his children, Debbi (Kevin), Karen (Chris) and Bernie, Jr. (Amy); grandchildren, Olivia (Kyle), Eric, and Christopher; great-grandson, Levi; as well as his sister Bernadette Szabo; nieces, Suzanne and Alyson, and nephews, SJ, Josh, Paul, Mike, and Chris.
A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at Peninsula Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Peninsula SPCA. https://peninsulaspca.org/ or the Virginia Symphony https://virginiasymphony.org/donate/ Arrangements by Weymouth Funeral Home.
Mr. Sotak, Sr.
SOTAK 5
Dad with his great-nieces and sister Bernadette.
Mom and Dad shortly after they married in 1962.
Dad with sister Bernadette, niece Suzanne, Bernie Jr. and myself.
Sad news Bernie…Hang in there brother..
I am sorry for your loss. I met Bernie when we both worked at Newport News Shipbuilding in the mid-1980s. We shared several acquaintances from Perryopolis.
“Kids”. My family lived across from yours on Milstead Avenue, the Randall family. I remember both your mom and dad so well. Bernie could be a little “crusty” if neighbor kids got near his well cared for lawn, but we all knew he was a sweetheart underneath. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, but at 95 he had every right to go home to your mom. He lived a long and good life, and I know you 3 took good care of him as he aged. Please know that my brother, Randy, and I are thinking of you and the good memories you have of both your parents.