Karl Bernal

For a time you couldn’t go to a meeting, luncheon, or community event without bumping into Karl Bernal. Karl’s activities and service in many organizations benefited the people of Lake County at many levels and improved the quality of life for all. His outstanding efforts included the involvement in the NAACP Scholarship Fund Program, the Salvation Army, United Way of Lake County, Red Cross, and St. James Episcopal Church Lunch Program.

Other community involvements included the Lake County Society for Rehabilitation of Children and Adults, Lake County Development Committee, Bishops Committee on Racial Reconcilement for the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio, ADAMHS Board, Painesville Kiwanis Club, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and the Lake County Senior Citizens Services Levy Coalition.

For his exemplary service and achievements, Karl received numerous honors including Lake County Man of the Year in 1986, Painesville Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 1989, and United Way of Lake County’s Good Neighbor Award in 1995. He also received the NAACP Honorary Life Membership.

Mr. Bernal died on May 23, 1997, six days before his 77th birthday.