Rev. Bernard C. Wahl, Jr., 81, of Naples, Florida, died December 22, 2007. Bernard was born April 8, 1926, in Elgin. He is a graduate of Elgin High School ('44), North Central College in Naperville, and Evangelical Theological Seminary (now Garrett).

Bernard served as a missionary in Malaysia, as a minister in various United Methodist Churches in Illinois, and was on the staff of First United Methodist Church in Naples for a number of years. Later, Bernard became a firefighter in the North Naples Fire Department for 15 years, a choice fueled by his interest in the great Chicago fire fought by his great-grandfather, Charles Wahl, and who became Elgin's first firefighter.

Bernard's major interests were in astronomy, as an officer in the Everglades Astronomical Society, travel, and photography.

Preceded in death by parents, Bernard C. Wahl, Sr., Gertrude (Lange) Wahl; and sister, Arlene, all of Elgin.

Survived by wife, Mary Esther (Drake) Wahl; daughters, Ruth Wahl and Robin Wahl (Ronald Soulard); sons, Richard (Marilyn) and Roger (Mildred); sister, Bernice Anderson of Elgin; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and other relatives and friends.

A memorial service was held on December 27 in Naples.

Bernard C Wahl