Bernard Suessmeier

Bernard Suessmeier died peacefully, surrounded by family, on March 22, 2021 at his home in Kensington, CA, following a long illness. He was 87. Born in Germany, Bernard came to the U.S. as a young man, living in New York, Colorado and eventually the Bay Area. He had a long career as a chef, restaurant owner and manager. For over 30 years he worked for McCalls Catering & Events, managing their restaurant at the SF Gift Center and catering numerous large corporate, political and social events and parties around the Bay Area. A consummate professional, he was well known for his Old World charm and hospitality and was loved by all who knew him. Bernard loved being surrounded by people and continued to work well into his 80s. He also loved to garden and took great pride in his garden at home. For many years he volunteered with the St Vincent de Paul food pantry at St Jerome’s Church in El Cerrito where he built many wonderful friendships. Bernard enjoyed many travel adventures with his wife of 25 years, Judith, who died in 2009. He was fiercely independent until the end. He was preceded in death by his parents, Josef and Christine, and four brothers. He is survived by three stepchildren, Jeffrey and David

Levin and Debra Reed, a nephew Rainer Suessmeier, a niece Petra Eckel, and three grandchildren. A memorial will be held later this year once pandemic restrictions are lifted. For more info email to bsuessmeier21@gmail.com. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation in Bernard’s name to Paralyzed Veterans of America.