Bernard Lee Waldhauser, 76, of Owatonna, died Saturday, October 15, 2022 at his home.

He was born October 1, 1946 in Albert Lea, Minnesota the son of Alvin and Eileen (Miller) Waldhauser. Bernie would enlist in the United States Navy in January of 1964 and would serve in the Vietnam War before returning to Minnesota in 1968. He worked at northwestern bell for several years and then opened his own business, B&W Communications, which he ran until he retired in 2013. Bernie loved to decorate for Christmas inside and outside of the house, would spend hours watching birds on the farm, enjoyed horseshoes, football and loved to argue politics! He also played Broomall and softball for years. He enjoyed fishing, long scenic drives, and oldie music from the 50s and 60s.

He is survived by his daughter, Juliane Smith (Todd Jensen); son, Darin Waldhauser; 6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; brothers Steve Waldhauser (Jody Davis), Al (Jeanne) Waldhauser; sister, Sheryl Waldhauser (Don Ploenzke) brother-in-law Roger Schroeder.

He was preceded in death by his mother Eileen (Miller) Waldhauser, and sister, Elizabeth Schroeder.

A celebration of life visitation will be held at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna from 10AM to 12PM. There will be a time of sharing at 11:45AM. Burial will be in the Vista Swedish Lutheran Cemetery, rural New Richland. the Steele County Military Funeral Unit will be providing honors at the burial site.