Bernard J. Gergash "Barney", age 71, of Joliet, passed away peacefully at his lifelong home on Thursday, April 20, 2023. Survived by his sister Jacqueline Forsythe, nieces and nephews Julie (Dave) Bellah, Rhonda (Mark) Yeck, Stephanie (Doug) Krueger, Joseph (Christy) Forsythe, Paul (Kylie) Forsythe, Joseph Hrpcha, numerous great nieces and nephews and his brother-in-law Brian "Buddy" Hrpcha. Preceded in death by his parents Bernard A. and Edith (nee Venditti) Gergash, his sister Cheryl Hrpcha, his brother-in-law David Forsythe and his faithful feline companion Concetta. Barney enjoyed all kinds of music, movies, cooking and baking, especially homemade pizza, crème puffs, pizzelles and cheesecake, and all animals. Barney had a huge heart; he devoted his life to caring for both of his parents since 1973. Barney was a family man, he took most joy in spending time with them, he will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Visitation for Bernard will be on Monday, April 24, 2023 from 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home. Funeral Service will take place the same day at 1:00 P.M. also at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow at Saints Cyril & Methodius Cemetery, Joliet. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.