Bernard "Bernie" L. Sater's Obituary
Bernard “Bernie” L. Sater Age 93. Beloved husband of Eileen; devoted father of Diane (Florence Wee), Melanie, Neil (Mary Beth Bowden), Leanne (Chris Esch), and the late Lesley Ann. Cherished grandfather of Ian, Kerry (Nick Bryan), Bradley, Greg, Alia, Mykela, and Caeden; great-grandfather of Caroline and Rebecca. Caring brother of the late Louis (Joan), the late Joan (Dave Powers, deceased), and Jannett Walsh (Bob Klimkowicz, deceased).
Born June 30, 1930 in St. Louis to Maurice Sater and Mildred O’Flyng, his childhood entailed many relocations throughout the United States’ heartland. Growing up during the Depression made a profound impact on Bernie’s lifelong advocacy for public institutions and bettering society. After graduating from Cleveland’s John Marshall High School in 1948, Bernie served in the Coast Guard from 1951 to 1954. Utilizing the GI bill, he earned his Electrical Engineering Bachelor’s degree at The Ohio State University and met Eileen in Columbus. He later earned a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering at Cleveland State University.
Bernie commenced a 33-year career with NASA in 1961, which was filled with remarkable accomplishments — including managing the program that developed solar panels for the legendary International Space Station. Upon retiring from NASA in 1994, Bernie continued pioneering solar cell innovations, founding PhotoVolt Inc., which became GreenField Solar Corp. He was issued numerous patents throughout his career, well into his 80s. He and Eileen were lifelong students, traveling the world and taking classes until he passed away.
Despite the breadth of his impressive accomplishments, Bernie was not one to dwell on his achievements — he was just as content to be known for baking delicious goodies, that he’d lovingly deliver with clever poems that he’d customize for each recipient. Bernie was remarkably active and sharp into his final months, and thoroughly enjoyed his 94th Christmas on Earth before his illness. Bernie appreciated the care of Southwest General Hospital and Perciak Hospice during his battle with pneumonia.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Red Cloud Indian School www.mahpiyaluta.org or other charities for children. Funeral Mass Wednesday, Jan. 31 at St. Mary Catholic Church, 250 Kraft St. in Berea at 10 AM. Interment at Strongsville Cemetery. The family will receive friends TUESDAY, Jan. 30, 4:30 – 7:30 PM at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME, 15822 PEARL RD. in STRONGSVILLE.
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