Bernard Tysen

Bernard Tysen, age 92, of DeMotte passed away October 8, 2011. He was born on November 12, 1918 in DeMotte, IN to Richard “Dick” and Ricca (Hoffman) Tysen both deceased.. His first marriage was to Anna Kleinblossom who preceded him in death in 1971. Then, on April 7, 1972 in DeMotte he married V. Evelyn Hansen Donis who survives. Bernard graduated from DeMotte High School, the class of 1937. He was a veteran of WWII serving in the U.S. Air Force and was a survivor of the Pearl Harbor Attack in 1941. In 1976, Bernard started his career at DeKock’s Grocery. Then in 1976, he opened Tysen’s Grocery store that grew into Tysen’s Family Market in its current location in the DeMotte Plaza. He eventually retired in 1988. Although retired, Bernard kept active as a member of the American Reformed Church and past Elder & Deacon at the First Reformed Church of DeMotte. He was a member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Chapter #1. He was a member of the DeMotte American Legion Post #440 and the Veteran of Foreign Wars. He earned his private pilot’s license and enjoyed aviation and model airplanes. Bernard had a flare for music and art. During the 1950's he belonged to a 3 piece band, The Kankakee Valley Boys. He enjoyed painting, and building & repairing antique clocks. Bernard is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn, his three children, Pamela (Jerry) Hale of Wheatfield, IN, Jessica Tysen of Hallowell, ME, Mark (Gloria) Tysen of Wheatfield, IN; three step-children. Theresa (Jeff) Landis of Lafayette, IN, Joseph (Cindy) Donis of Valparaiso, IN, and Larry (Darlene) Donis of DeMotte, IN, two sisters, Mildred Hamstra of DeMotte, IN and Edith Johnston of Mishawaka, IN. He is survived by 11 Grandchildren and 17 Great-Grandchildren. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Anna, 1 granddaughter and 3 brothers. Friends may call on Tuesday October 11, 2011 at Jackson Funeral Service of DeMotte from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday October 12, 2011 at 11:00 AM at the American Reformed Church of DeMotte with Pastor Dan Jelsma officiating. Interment will follow at Holland Cemetery with military rites. Memorials may be made to the American Reformed Church.

Bernard Tysen

November 12, 1918 - October 8, 2011