Bernard "Bernie" P Mulligan , VRHS Class of 1963
Schodack- Bernard "Bernie" P. Mulligan, 76, passed away October 16, 2021. He was a lifelong resident of the Capital District and graduated as valedictorian from Van Rensselaer High School, class of 1963. He was a 1967 graduate of Union College in Schenectady, where he was a proud and loved member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. Many high school and college friends remained very close to Bern. After college, Bern was self-employed in several successful business ventures. He then spent 30+ years as a project manager with Bennett Contracting in Albany, where he was respected and revered by the entire staff. Bernie was the devoted husband of Nancy Mulligan of Schodack NY; Loving father of Mary Lynn Sharp (Jeffrey) of Apex, NC, Anthony Mulligan (Jennifer) of North Greenbush, NY, Erica Mulligan of Boston, MA, and Michael Mulligan (Hannah) of Castleton, VT; Dedicated stepfather to Katy Davis (Valjean) of Troy, NY and EJ Bonacker of Schodack, NY; Beloved brother of Louis "Lou" Mulligan of Schodack, NY; Doting Grandfather "Papa" to Taylor and Maryssa Sharp, Samantha and Matthew Mulligan, Abigail and J.P. Mulligan, and Kylie Davis; Faithful son-in-law to Angie Kenealy and brother-in-law to Michael (Kim) Kenealy and Deane (Hildy) Kenealy; and is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. In his younger years Bernie was an outstanding athlete in baseball, football, basketball, and bowling; he was selected for many all-star teams throughout his playing career. Later he became an avid and talented golfer and fisherman. His true love in sports was the New York Yankees, and he probably deserves to be in their Hall of Fame as an outstanding and dedicated fan! Bern had innate kindness in his heart, and all his life helped family and friends in every way possible. He had a rare quality of soft-spoken leadership that brought out the best in those around him, first in athletics and more importantly in all of life's challenges. Those who had the pleasure of knowing him experienced his sincere compassion and great generosity. Bern had a calming influence on everyone in times of stress or sadness. His courage in hard times inspired those around him. Our beloved Bernie is best described in five words: Kind, generous, compassionate, brave, and loving. He will always be missed. A funeral service will be held in his memory at W.J. Lyons Funeral home on October 21 at 6:00 PM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bernie's memory to the Juvenile Diabetes Cure Alliance: https://thejdca.kindful.com/?campaign=1085059 Juvenile Diabetes Cure Alliance 225 Highway #35 Suite 102C Red Bank, NJ 07701