Richard Fernand Bernard

August 19, 1934 - June 26, 2016

Richard F. Bernard, of Hamden, passed away on June 26, 2016. He was born on August 19, 1934 in Lewiston, Maine. He attended Lewiston High School where he won the State Science Fair and was President of the Science Club. He received a B.A. in Zoology from the University of Maine in 1956 and then went to Michigan State University for graduate work. From 1957 to 1959 he served in the Army and following that, returned to MSU to complete his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees. At MSU, Dr. Bernard served in both teaching and research and following graduation in 1962, joined the staff at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. After seven years, he accepted a position at Quinnipiac University as a Professor of Biology. Dr. Bernard wrote several papers on the distribution of birds and on the effects of pesticides on avian populations. His work was underscored by an award from NATO to present his findings on pesticides to an Advanced Study Institute in Monkswood, England in 1965. He leaves behind his sister, Yolande Dube as well as sixteen nephews and nieces. Funeral services will be Thursday, June 30 at 11am at the Rose Hill Funeral Home, 580 Elm St., Rocky Hill. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Memorial Park. Calling hours are Wednesday, 5-7pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37839, Boone, IA 50037-0839 or the St. Labre Indian School, Ashland, Montana 59004. Condolences may be made online at www.rosehillfuneralhomes.com