Bernard L. Waggoner

Bernard L. Waggoner, 94, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully in his home of 75 years on Thursday, June 18, 2026. He was born on August 16, 1931, in South Bend to the late Leslie L. and Antoinette E. (Dubczak) Waggoner.

On October 21, 1950, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Bernard married his beloved Shirley A. Myers. They enjoyed a beautiful life together through 74 years of marriage. Shirley preceded him in death on May 4, 2024. He is survived by his children, Debra A. Kruger of Northbrook, Illinois, Dawn D. Waggoner of South Bend, and Bruce B. Waggoner of South Bend; eight grandchildren, Jordan (Sarah) Kruger, Jeremy (Danielle) Kruger, Richard (Kayla) Dutka, Melanie (Joshua) Woodbury, Andy Leszcz, David Waggoner, Daniel Waggoner, and Jane Waggoner; seven great-grandchildren, Ariel, Jacob, Joseph, Cody, Genevieve, Amelia, and Judah; and his cousin, Eleanor Kish Williams. Bernard was also preceded in death by his brother, Charles Waggoner; sister, Charlotte Waggoner; son-in-law, James Kruger; daughter-in-law, Mary Waggoner; and sister-in-law, Virginia Waggoner.

Bernard was a devoted husband to Shirley, and together they built a lasting legacy defined by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known to his friends as Bernie, and fondly as “Beanie” to Shirley, he worked hard at various jobs, including the Studebaker Corporation to provide for his growing family. He was often forced to work two jobs when industry dried up in South Bend. His career turning point was joining the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 150. He was a proud union worker for over 50 years for both Ritchard Brothers and Rieth-Riley Construction, and he took immense pride in his work. He loved nothing more than driving around town, pointing out the various roads and buildings he helped bring to life, including the library at Notre Dame. He reveled in explaining the hard work that went into every project, and years after retiring, he would enjoy nighttime dreams of him still on his loader. Whether he was reflecting on his childhood or his years in construction, his stories were always infused with unmatched humor and wit—he had a gift for sharing a funny saying that would make you pause, think, and smile.

Bernie and Shirley made lifetime friends as members of the Turnverein (Turners) Bowling Club and both competed in national tournaments over many years, and he enjoyed teaching youngsters his favorite bowling tips. Bernie always found joy in the simple pleasures: tending to his garden, planting vibrant flowers and vegetables, and dancing to Polka Hour in the kitchen with Shirley. A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, he faithfully followed them, often via transistor radio on his patio, throughout good seasons and bad. He loved grilling meats to enjoy alongside his homegrown tomatoes and cucumbers, always to be shared with family. He was a caretaker at heart, looking after everyone around him—including the birds, the squirrels, and even a stray chicken that wandered into his yard last year.

Above all else, he cared for his family. We were so fortunate to have had him and Shirley to guide us, providing a solid foundation of love, family, and faith. His passing leaves a deep hole in all of our hearts, but his stories, lessons, sayings, and his laughter will remain with us always.

A visitation for Bernard will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr., South Bend, IN, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to any charity of the donor’s choice in Bernard’s honor.

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