Joel Bernhard, 47, of Lomira, went home to his Savior on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac, surrounded by his family. A Christian Funeral Service for Joel will take place on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Theresa with Rev. HugoContinue Reading
Joel Bernhard, 47, of Lomira, went home to his Savior on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac, surrounded by his family.
A Christian Funeral Service for Joel will take place on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Theresa with Rev. Hugo A. Ugalde Bemer officiating. A visitation for Joel will be held at church on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at 4:00 p.m. Following the service, interment will take place at Union Cemetery in Theresa.
Born on November 8, 1978, to Ron and Karen (Zedler) Bernhard, Joel’s life began with challenges that would have discouraged most. At the age of two, he developed a brain tumor that led to multiple surgeries and ultimately the loss of his sight. Yet Joel saw the world more clearly than many ever will. His vision was not limited by eyes, but expanded by faith, determination, and a legendary spirit that shaped every chapter of his life.
Joel began his education at Franklin Elementary School in Oshkosh, where he first learned braille literacy and received mobility training, skills that helped him navigate both school and daily life with growing independence. Throughout those early years, his parents encouraged him to explore and try new things. He was raised to believe he could do anything others could, even if he had to approach it differently. In Joel’s own words, “It’s not what you can’t do, it’s what you can do.”
As he grew older, Joel carried that confidence into Lomira High School, where he became a proud graduate and embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm – band, 4-H, forensics, and especially FFA and attending the Fond du Lac County Fair, where he loved showing animals and entering his award winning baked goods. Whether hunting deer and turkey with his brother, Mike, playing card games, building Legos, or singing his favorite hymns in church, Joel approached life with curiosity, joy, and the determination his parents had nurtured from the very beginning.
A lifelong member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Theresa, Joel was baptized and confirmed there, and his faith remained the foundation of his life. He lived with a quiet but unmistakable devotion to God, reflected in his kindness, resilience, and the way he treated every person he met.
After high school, Joel earned a Culinary Arts degree from Moraine Park Technical College. His love of baking and making candy, especially chocolate truffles, became both his craft and his calling. He began with small ventures, including a pop up kiosk in the Fond du Lac mall, before opening his beloved business, Confections For Any Occasion, in 2001.
Joel’s store was the love of his life. Even during times of illness, he remained closely involved in the daily operations by staying in touch with staff, making decisions, and offering guidance whether he was at home or in a hospital bed. In 2024, he was forced to close the shop after a devastating fire, but the outpouring of support from his staff and the community left him deeply grateful as they helped him rebuild and restore his cherished business. For 25 years, Joel’s shop has been a landmark of Theresa: a place where families gathered, children made memories, and neighbors found comfort in Joel’s warm presence and extraordinary confections. His passion was unmistakable, and his generosity touched everyone who walked through his doors.
Joel’s life was marked by extraordinary medical challenges, including numerous surgeries and a liver and kidney transplant. He formed close bonds with the doctors and nurses who cared for him and amazed many with his deep understanding of medical terminology. Through every hardship, Joel remained hopeful and focused on returning to the work he loved, staying determined to serve the customers he considered friends and who brought so much joy to his life.
He is survived by his mother, Karen; his brother Mike (Tammy); his nieces Samantha (Aidric) Mertens and Sabrina Bernhard (fiancé, Brandon Evans); and many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and an entire community who loved him dearly. Joel was preceded in death by his father, Ronald; his sister Angela; his maternal grandparents, Lester and Bette Zedler; his paternal grandparents, Carl and Gladys Bernhard; and his uncle Ron Schwenk.
Joel’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who supported and cared for him throughout his life. Your kindness, prayers, and love were felt deeply and will forever be remembered.
Joel’s journey through life was not defined by what he lost, but by everything he gave. His courage, his faith, his humor, his sweetness – these will live on in the countless lives he touched. Joel overcame more than most ever will, and in doing so, he became a symbol of perseverance. His love of the community and legacy will remain a blessing to all who knew him.
Anonymous
left a message on July 3, 2026:
The entire Team at West Bend Sausage Plus
left a message on July 3, 2026:
From everyone at Widmers Cheese Cellars
left a message on July 3, 2026:
Kitty Bublitz
left a message on July 3, 2026:
Karen, Mike,Tammy and family. I am so sorry to hear about Joel. He was one of the coolest guys I’ve ever met He recognized my voice whenever I would see him. What a great guy. He will be missed by many people. Take care and Gods blessings to all of you. Kitty Bublitz
Phil Luce
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Marie & I knew & admired Joel as a man who proved daily that who you are is more than what you are! God has his own with Him now, but thanks for sharing Joel with us.
Diane Gafney
left a message on July 2, 2026:
my deepest sympathy to you Karen, and your whole family. Joel was one of a kind. I feel blessed to have been able to call him my student who then became my friend. I am sure he taught me more than I ever taught him. Such a wonderful role model, always willing to help others and welcomed us when we came to visit with students. I am holding all of you in my prayers.
Rev. John W. Berg
left a message on July 2, 2026:
"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints." Psalm 118:15.
Joy
left a message on July 2, 2026:
An inspiration to all. Accomplished more in a short time than many will in their lives. Cherish the sweet memories and rest assured in the resurrection guaranteed because our Savior paid the price so that you will be reunited in Heaven some day.
Janet Stein
left a message on July 2, 2026:
I didn’t know Joel. I was just a customer who loved his best ever fairy food! To me, he was a rock star! His brilliance amazed me. When I visited the store and he wasn’t there, I was disappointed. I’m so sorry that you lost him at such a young age but, as the saying goes, he’s not in pain anymore. He’s in a happy, beautiful place that he can now see!
Barbara osberg
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel was an.amazing person.
My sisters lived in.Theresa.and we enjoyed many trips to Joel's
I was soimpressed with how quickly he identified my voice
He really knew his trade and i
Loved his candy. He was always
Happy and positive and i admired him for accomplishing so much. Have.prayed for him for years. He will be greatly
missed
Bruce and Debbie
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel was an Amazing man and an inspiration to so many, he was welcomed to heaven by his Dad and sister, may his cherished memories help comfort all of you ❤️🙏
Beth Berg
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Dear Karen, Mike, and the Bernhard family,
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
I remember Joel as a sweet and kind little boy, and I felt blessed to visit with both Joel and Karen at his shop, Confections For Any Occasion. It is clear that his faith and the love of his family helped him grow into a fine man.
May you find comfort in knowing that Joel became a child of God through his Baptism in Christ Jesus and received forgiveness through the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. He is now with his Savior, clothed in the white robes of Christ's righteousness.
Yours in Christ,
Beth Berg
Catherine
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Amazing man. I am sure you inspired many people to do what others may think is not possible.
Kathy Godina
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Stacy Linden
left a message on July 2, 2026:
My deepest condolences. Joel was an amazing person. I have so many great memories of hanging out with Joel, especially at FFA events. My kids got to know Joel through the candy store and he always spent time talking to them and having to pick the perfect chocolate covered pretzel for my daughter. I’m thankful to have known him. We are so sorry for your loss.
Kathy Schwenk
left a message on July 2, 2026:
My deepest sympathy. May the lord comfort you during this difficult time. I always enjoyed visiting with Joel at family gatherings. Memories live in our hearts forever.
Terri DelPriore
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Sending my deepest condolences as Joel was the kindest person I knew. This is such a great loss. Joel was an inspiration to all who had the honor of knowing him. He will be truly missed. May he Rest in peace.
Jay and Jessica
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Barb
left a message on July 2, 2026:
I had the pleasure of meeting Joel only once, but still remember what a big smile and infectious attitude he had; and reading all of the wonderful tributes that smile and attitude was something that he had all of his life . We absolutely love taking a step back in time whenever we visit the candy store.
Shelly (Chopski) Kosin
left a message on July 2, 2026:
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Joel. I have nice memories of hanging out with him as a child when his Aunt Sarah would dare to bring him around the Krieser Famliy. I have not seen him in many years but I am amazed by all of his accomplishments.
Dennis Lohr
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Karen, thank you for sharing Joel and his gifts with myself and so many others. Please accept my sincerest condolences to you and the entire family.
† Blessed be the name and memory of Joel Nathan Bernhard †
Gina Stange
left a message on July 2, 2026:
My condolences to Joel's family and friends.
I had the chance to meet him last Memorial day and see his store, finally!
Donald Charapata
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel was an amazing person! A wonderful neighbor! One memory I have was that we were going on vacation and I mention it to Joel. He said I will watch your home. I exclaimed how? He said I hear everything that goes in your driveway! What a gift.
Bob Klatt
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel’s obituary is a wonderful tribute to his extraordinary perseverance despite his many challenges. Clearly he chose to experience his life and make the most of it, rather than just endure it. What an admirable example he set. I wish I would have met him. Condolences to his family. ✝️
Tracy Hintz
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel’s family, friends and community are in my prayers and prayers. My deepest condolences and sympathy.
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Anonymous
left a message on July 3, 2026:
The entire Team at West Bend Sausage Plus
left a message on July 3, 2026:
From everyone at Widmers Cheese Cellars
left a message on July 3, 2026:
Kitty Bublitz
left a message on July 3, 2026:
Karen, Mike,Tammy and family. I am so sorry to hear about Joel. He was one of the coolest guys I’ve ever met He recognized my voice whenever I would see him. What a great guy. He will be missed by many people. Take care and Gods blessings to all of you. Kitty Bublitz
Phil Luce
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Marie & I knew & admired Joel as a man who proved daily that who you are is more than what you are! God has his own with Him now, but thanks for sharing Joel with us.
Diane Gafney
left a message on July 2, 2026:
my deepest sympathy to you Karen, and your whole family. Joel was one of a kind. I feel blessed to have been able to call him my student who then became my friend. I am sure he taught me more than I ever taught him. Such a wonderful role model, always willing to help others and welcomed us when we came to visit with students. I am holding all of you in my prayers.
Rev. John W. Berg
left a message on July 2, 2026:
"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints." Psalm 118:15.
Joy
left a message on July 2, 2026:
An inspiration to all. Accomplished more in a short time than many will in their lives. Cherish the sweet memories and rest assured in the resurrection guaranteed because our Savior paid the price so that you will be reunited in Heaven some day.
Janet Stein
left a message on July 2, 2026:
I didn’t know Joel. I was just a customer who loved his best ever fairy food! To me, he was a rock star! His brilliance amazed me. When I visited the store and he wasn’t there, I was disappointed. I’m so sorry that you lost him at such a young age but, as the saying goes, he’s not in pain anymore. He’s in a happy, beautiful place that he can now see!
Barbara osberg
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel was an.amazing person.
My sisters lived in.Theresa.and we enjoyed many trips to Joel's
I was soimpressed with how quickly he identified my voice
He really knew his trade and i
Loved his candy. He was always
Happy and positive and i admired him for accomplishing so much. Have.prayed for him for years. He will be greatly
missed
Bruce and Debbie
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel was an Amazing man and an inspiration to so many, he was welcomed to heaven by his Dad and sister, may his cherished memories help comfort all of you ❤️🙏
Beth Berg
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Dear Karen, Mike, and the Bernhard family,
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
I remember Joel as a sweet and kind little boy, and I felt blessed to visit with both Joel and Karen at his shop, Confections For Any Occasion. It is clear that his faith and the love of his family helped him grow into a fine man.
May you find comfort in knowing that Joel became a child of God through his Baptism in Christ Jesus and received forgiveness through the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. He is now with his Savior, clothed in the white robes of Christ's righteousness.
Yours in Christ,
Beth Berg
Catherine
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Amazing man. I am sure you inspired many people to do what others may think is not possible.
Kathy Godina
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Stacy Linden
left a message on July 2, 2026:
My deepest condolences. Joel was an amazing person. I have so many great memories of hanging out with Joel, especially at FFA events. My kids got to know Joel through the candy store and he always spent time talking to them and having to pick the perfect chocolate covered pretzel for my daughter. I’m thankful to have known him. We are so sorry for your loss.
Kathy Schwenk
left a message on July 2, 2026:
My deepest sympathy. May the lord comfort you during this difficult time. I always enjoyed visiting with Joel at family gatherings. Memories live in our hearts forever.
Terri DelPriore
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Sending my deepest condolences as Joel was the kindest person I knew. This is such a great loss. Joel was an inspiration to all who had the honor of knowing him. He will be truly missed. May he Rest in peace.
Jay and Jessica
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Barb
left a message on July 2, 2026:
I had the pleasure of meeting Joel only once, but still remember what a big smile and infectious attitude he had; and reading all of the wonderful tributes that smile and attitude was something that he had all of his life . We absolutely love taking a step back in time whenever we visit the candy store.
Shelly (Chopski) Kosin
left a message on July 2, 2026:
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Joel. I have nice memories of hanging out with him as a child when his Aunt Sarah would dare to bring him around the Krieser Famliy. I have not seen him in many years but I am amazed by all of his accomplishments.
Dennis Lohr
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Karen, thank you for sharing Joel and his gifts with myself and so many others. Please accept my sincerest condolences to you and the entire family.
† Blessed be the name and memory of Joel Nathan Bernhard †
Gina Stange
left a message on July 2, 2026:
My condolences to Joel's family and friends.
I had the chance to meet him last Memorial day and see his store, finally!
Donald Charapata
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel was an amazing person! A wonderful neighbor! One memory I have was that we were going on vacation and I mention it to Joel. He said I will watch your home. I exclaimed how? He said I hear everything that goes in your driveway! What a gift.
Bob Klatt
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel’s obituary is a wonderful tribute to his extraordinary perseverance despite his many challenges. Clearly he chose to experience his life and make the most of it, rather than just endure it. What an admirable example he set. I wish I would have met him. Condolences to his family. ✝️
Tracy Hintz
left a message on July 2, 2026:
Joel’s family, friends and community are in my prayers and prayers. My deepest condolences and sympathy.
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