Bernard Stambazze, age 81, 1500 Grant Street, Huntington, died at 12:50 a.m. Monday (January 28, 2008) at Miller’s Merry Manor in Huntington.

     Mr. Stambazze retired in 1990, after 19 years as the manager for Clark’s Cafeteria in Wabash, IN.  Prior to that, he was the Chef at Emley’s Restaurant in Marion, IN for 26 years.  Bernard was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Huntington.  He was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. Post # 2689 where he served on the House Committee and as a Service Officer as well as on the Color Guard Detail.

     Bernard was born on May 31, 1926 in Logansport, IN, the son of Jacob and Ida Gertrude (Bebee) Stambazze.  He served during WW II in the United States Navy as a Gunners Mate Second Class.  Bernard married Norma Jean Teddy on May 19, 1946 in Huntington and she preceded him in death on July 8, 1993.

     Survivors include two sons – Bernard “Pete” (Judy) Stambazze of Marion, Ohio and Bob (Marla) Stambazze of Huntington; one daughter – Bernadette Kay (Michael) Byrne of Elk Rapids, Michigan; four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and several nephews and nieces.  Two brothers – Kale Turnpaugh and George Stambazze, and a sister – Bonnie Stambazze, preceded him in death.

     Visitation will be 4 – 7 p.m. Tuesday (January 29, 2008) at Bailey-Love Mortuary.  Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday (January 30, 2008) at Bailey-Love Mortuary with Rev. David Ballinger officiating.  Burial will be in the Pilgrims Rest Cemetery, Huntington.  The V.F.W. Post 2689 will conduct military graveside services.

     Memorial contributions may be made to the V.F.W. Post # 2689 (in memory of Bernard and Norma Jean Stambazze) or to Elks Rapids United Methodist Church in care of Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN  46750.