Troy Bernhard

Firefighter/Paramedic Troy Bernhard passed away from occupational metastatic bladder cancer on September 27, 2024. He waged a long battle against the disease, a battle he faced with courage and faith. He attempted to remain cancer free and fight this enemy. Doctors, treatments, and countless prayers surrounded him during his difficult journey. He never gave up. He was 49 years old and had served with the Perrysburg Township Fire & EMS Department in Ohio for 28 years. 

Bernhard was born in Monclova, Ohio and graduated from Anthony Wayne High School in 1993. He had an intense desire to help others and began his career as a firefighter with the Monclova Township Fire Department in 1991. After high school graduation, he worked for the Cedar Point Fire Department. He then worked for the Waterville Fire Department and was eventually hired full-time by the Perrysburg Township Fire Department. He loved his work and was an impactful leader. He also enjoyed his time working as a Paramedic in both the Wood County Hospital ER, then in the ER at the Mercy Hospital in Perrysburg. 

Bernhard married his soulmate, Rachel, and together they had two beautiful children, Samantha and Joseph. The children became the focal point of their marriage. He made their birthday cakes every year, even when he was debilitated by his treatments and his disease. He loved to cook and was a renowned neighborhood chef and a star chef in the fire house. Bernhard loved to feed and entertain family and friends. He lived life for others, especially for his loving wife and precious children. Rachel served in the Perrysburg Township Police Department at the time of their marriage. Together, the fire department and the police department were one unified force at their house. They had a loving partnership and family, enjoying travel, sports and living life to the fullest. 

Firefighter/Paramedic Troy Bernhard is survived by his loving wife, Rachel, his daughter, Samantha, his son, Joseph, his father, Larry Bernhard, his mother, Cheryl Deitrich, his brothers, Kevin and Brent, and many other cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Bernhard family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.