Bernard A. Doxtader

Bernard Allen Doxtader, 66 of Olivet and formerly Charlotte, died October 13, 2021. Bernard was a very caring and generous person, known for giving what little he had to help others in need. Born in Marshall, MI on February 28, 1955, to Floyd and Dorothy (Ripley) Doxtader, Bernie grew up in a large family and learned about sharing and caring for others from an early age. With an infectious kind of laugh and big bear hugs for his family, they hold those memories dear as they remember their brother. Some of the activities he enjoyed include bowling at CharLanes, dancing (he loved to dance at the Courthouse Square concerts), playing “Santa” at the Eagles in Charlotte and around town in Olivet, and fishing on the island in Eaton Rapids. On June 20, 1998, Bernard married Joanne Irene Reefman, and they enjoyed 23 years together. Bernard touched many lives with his kindness, and in his job delivering The County Journal newspaper around Charlotte, Vermontville, and Nashville. Bernard also worked at the Eaton Place restaurant for 15 years as a dishwasher. He was extremely proud of his work, and his bowling trophies and Special Olympics medals.
Bernard is survived by his siblings, Sandra Brown, Diana McConnell, Geraldine Doxtader, Josephine Carnell, Gordon Doxtader, and Katherine Doxtader; half-siblings, Donna Doxtader, Rachael Nichols, Sada Thorp, Tammi Rothchild, and Kenny Groux; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Stanley Doxtader; brothers-in-law, Albert Carnell Jr. and Roger Miller; and sister-n-law, Martha Doxtader
Friends and family are encouraged to support Bernard’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his tribute page at www.prayfuneral.com. Memorial Service will be Wednesday, November 10, 11:00 AM at West Carmel Congregational Church. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Albion, Michigan. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Christmas Kiddies in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.