Bernard Alan “Bernie” Mullen, 65, of Ladoga passed suddenly from this world of natural causes at 4:57 p.m. Oct. 2, 2023, and went to be with Jesus.
He is survived by his wife, Theresa (Wethington) Mullen; daughter Suanna “Shadon” Brown (Ryan) of Waynetown; a pseudo-son Gary Richard Sams (Jamie) of New Ross; and five grandchildren, Zachary Carroll, Kaitlynn Sams, Jacob Reath, Nolyn Brown and Keaton Brown; two sisters, Amy Lynn Fonner (John) Mechanicsville, Maryland, and Debra Ann Rey (Rene’) of Crofton, Maryland.
He was preceded in death by brother Gary Matthew Mullen (Theresa) of Lusby, Maryland.
He was the most beloved “Uncle Bernie” to many nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews.
Bernie was born July 17, 1958, at Washington, DC, to Bernard Matthew and Martha Mae (Williford) Mullen, both deceased. He grew up in his grandparents’ home and his grandfather’s faith would have a lasting impression on him throughout his life. He joined the US Navy in 1977 and proudly served several tours on the USS Guam in the Mediterranean. He married Theresa in 1997 and became a proud, transplanted Hoosier. He worked for Dowell Masonry to help build, restore and preserve many structures in our community until he retired in 2021.
Most importantly, Bernie was a humble man of God with a strong heart for Jesus and his family. He loved our Monday Bible studies and our Friday Night Dinners where our house, and oftentimes our porch or backyard, was full of people, love, and laughter. Bernie was so passionate about “being the church” and quickly volunteered when God put someone in our path that needed any kind of anything from sharing a meal, to a place to stay, to moving people across the country.
Bernie left a strong legacy with his family and friends. The love he had for his wife and daughter was unwavering. He had a quick wit and was one of the smartest people we knew. He enjoyed simple things and was always rearranging, or making something for whatever his grandkids were into including forts, wooden guns, and sponge bob posters. Anyone who knew Bernie knew his passion for his grandchildren. Simply put, Papaw was their biggest toy! He took great care of his family and friends and if there was a need, he filled it. He will forever be loved and missed by all those whose lives he touched.
A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5 at the Old Normal Hall, 100 N. Harrison St., Ladoga. A buffet will be available.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Bernie to Historic Ladoga at 100 N. Harrison St., Ladoga, IN 47954. Phone 765-942-2009.
Servies & Morgan Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Visit www.serviesmorgan.com to leave an online condolence or share a memory with the family.
