John E. Bernthal, a man who touched many lives through his dedication to speech pathology, education, and community service, passed away on July 23, 2021, due to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Born in 1940, John Bernthal lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, professional achievement, and a deep commitment to his family and community. A voracious reader, John Bernthal would have appreciated the detailed account of his life and accomplishments that follows.
Early Life and Foundations of John Bernthal
Born in Sheridan, Wyoming, John Bernthal spent his formative years in Wayne, Nebraska, where his father served as a Lutheran minister. Even as a young boy, John Bernthal demonstrated a strong work ethic and engagement with his community. He delivered the Omaha World-Herald newspaper and enthusiastically earned Boy Scout merit badges. His energetic spirit extended to Hahn High School in Wayne, where John Bernthal excelled as a running back on the football team. Remarkably, he also joined the marching band during halftime, showcasing his diverse talents and commitment by returning to the field for the second half of the game. This dedication continued at Wayne State College, where John Bernthal was elected student body president, earned letters in both football and tennis, and even played in the orchestra, highlighting his well-rounded personality and leadership qualities. His achievements at Wayne State were later formally recognized with an induction into the Wayne State Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on the institution. Furthering his education, John Bernthal obtained his Master’s degree from the University of Kansas in Lawrence. It was in Lawrence that John Bernthal achieved what he considered his greatest personal milestone: meeting Marilyn Simpson, who would become his beloved wife for 55 years.
A Distinguished Career in Speech Pathology and Audiology
Dr. John Bernthal pursued his academic passions further, earning a PhD from the University of Wisconsin. This marked the beginning of a distinguished academic career dedicated to the field of speech and audiology. His expertise and influence were widely recognized through his co-authored textbook with long-time friend Nick Bankson, which became a best-selling resource in the field, shaping the education of countless professionals. For three decades, John Bernthal served as Chair of the Barkley Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, leading and developing a renowned institution in communication disorders. His leadership and contributions to the field culminated in his election as President of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) in 2001. This prestigious position reflected the high esteem and respect John Bernthal held within the national and international speech and hearing community.
Personal Life and Community Engagement of John Bernthal
Beyond his professional achievements, John Bernthal cultivated a rich and fulfilling personal life. Together with his wife, Marilyn, he explored the globe, visiting every continent except Antarctica, demonstrating his adventurous spirit and love for travel. Known for his simple pleasures, John Bernthal had a particular fondness for ice cream. He actively participated in his local community, serving as a long-time member and past President of the Lincoln chapter of the Sertoma Club, a service organization focused on helping those in need. His commitment to service extended to volunteering for Meals on Wheels and mentoring young people through Lincoln’s TeamMates program, showcasing his dedication to giving back and supporting the next generation. John Bernthal also enjoyed playing cards, although he jokingly acknowledged his less than stellar lifetime Euchre record. A lifelong tennis enthusiast and avid sports fan, he enthusiastically supported his children and granddaughters in their athletic pursuits in tennis, basketball, and volleyball. He became a particularly ardent supporter of Creighton Volleyball, where his daughter Kirsten serves as Head Coach, proudly cheering her team and her accomplishments.
John Bernthal was predeceased by his parents, Rev. Erwin John Bernthal and Erna Bernthal. He is survived by his wife Marilyn (Simpson) Bernthal; his son Brad (Ande) and granddaughters Alexis and Quinn; his daughter Kirsten Bernthal Booth (Erik) and granddaughters Reese, Hayden, and Berkeley; his brothers Frederick Bernthal (Heather Lancaster) and Stuart Bernthal (Katherine); and his sisters Rebecca Bernthal and Christine Bernthal.
A viewing was held on Wednesday, July 28th, followed by a funeral service on Thursday, July 29th at Sheridan Lutheran Church in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Those wishing to honor John Bernthal’s memory are invited to contribute to the John and Marilyn Bernthal Speech Language Pathology Fellowship Fund at the University of NE Foundation, supporting future generations in the field he so passionately served.
