Bernard Sassman

Bernard E. Sassman, age 87, of Millcreek, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at UPMC Hamot.

He was born in Port Allegheny, PA on February 12, 1928, the son of the late Henry and Iva (Panton) Sassman.

He was a 1946 graduate of Emporium High School, later earning his Masters’ Degree in Education and Principle Certificate from Penn State University. He earned his machinist papers at the age of 14 years.

Bernard served in the US. Army during WWII from 1946-1948, serving in the 34th Gen. Hosp. and 24th Corp. In addition to working in machine shops, he was a teacher and over his career taught in Irwin, PA from 1952-1954, in Emporium, PA from 1954-1970, and in the Millcreek Township School District from 1970-1986.

He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, traveling and reading, but his greatest love was teaching.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lila Sassman; a son Allan Sassman (Carol) of Erie, PA, a daughter, Terri Thompson (Will) of Altoona, PA; grandchildren, Paul Bocianowski, Eric Sassman (Marie), Stephan Bocianowski, Laura Pabellon (Johnathan); James Bocianowski, Jonathan Bocianowski; and great grandchildren, Skye Bocianowski and Evan Sassman.

Friends are invited to call upon the family at Burton Westlake Funeral Home, 3801 West 26th Street (at Powell Ave.) on Monday April 6, from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service there at 6:00 p.m.

Private burial will be in Laurel Hill Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff at Manchester Commons for the wonderful care Bernard received during his time there. While there, he made many friends, both staff and residents, that he enjoyed spending time with.

Memorial donations may be made to Manchester Commons 6351 West Lake Road, Erie, PA 16505.