Bernard Cyril Gross

Bernard Cyril Gross, 96, of Rydal Park, PA, passed away June 20th, 2020 at 6:35 a.m. Born July 23rd, 1923 in Atlantic City, Bernard was the son of Harry M. Gross and Clara Seidman. Bernard (better known as “Bernie”) graduated Central High School and thereafter attended Textile College before enlisting in the U.S. Army on 11/23/1942. Serving in Western Europe in World War II, Bernie entered the war via Normandy Beach and served as a medic until his return with a Victory Medal on 06/29/1945. Bernie was the definition of a gentleman; embraced diversity, daily, in his work and home life; was considered the “go-to guy” when hard things needed to be done; in his prime could hit off the tee like a “gorilla”; and later became an ardent fly fisherman. Bernie experienced some of his very best moments in life while in the stream, chasing trout, with his wife Shirley close by.

Surviving are three children; Susan, Peter and Jimmy; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Bernie was grateful for the wonderful friends he made throughout Rydal Park and the surrounding community. The members of the Brodhead Field and Stream Association, where he evolved into the fly fisherman he later became, left an indelible impression on his life.

Bernard was predeceased by his beloved wife of 66 years, Shirley Orlowitz Gross.

A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held later in the summer at Rydal Park in addition to a military honor service being held at the Veteran Affairs’ Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, PA. Announcements will be forthcoming as to both services.

Bernie would want any and all contributions to be made to the Brodhead Field and Stream Association, care of Jim Gross, P.O. Box 738, Fort Washington, PA 19034-9998.