Bernard John “Bernie” Olszeski, 82, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, after a long battle with cancer. A celebration of life will be held at his son’s namesake restaurant, Bernie’s, located in Kennesaw, Georgia. The date to be announced.
Bernie was born on September 3, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio to Edward and Mary (Tyl) Olszewski. He was the middle child of three boys. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kent State University and enjoyed a successful career in chemical sales that allowed him to travel the world. He and his family finally settled in Marietta, Georgia in the early ’70s where they became life-long members of the community.
Bernie lived life to the fullest and touched many with his quick wit, unique ability to masterfully tell a joke, a genuine love for others, and his gracious hospitality. His large circle of loved ones includes his spouse, children, and eight grandchildren, along with neighbors, past colleagues, and former clients who frequently gathered at his home for Sunday football and home cooking.
He is survived by his spouse Barbara, of 26 years, along with her children Mitch and his wife Rosa, and Renni and her husband Randy. Bernie is also survived by his previous spouse, Beverly Huff, and their three children, Brett and his wife Laura, Bernie (Little Bern), and BethAnn. He loved his role as Grandpa O. to Brittany and her husband Taylor, Brandon, Zoie, Ellie and her husband Noah, Lea, Lucy, Alexis and her husband Michael, Sidney and her husband Steven, and his great-grandson Nolan. He is also survived by his brother Bill and his wife Pat, along with adored nieces and nephews Suzy, Kurt, Will, Kim, Karen, Linda, Mark, Patricia, and their children and grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Olszewski, brother David, sister-in-law Kathleen, Gail Pisani, and his close friend Rocky Schirripa.
