Bernard Miscannon Jr.

Bernard “Bernie” J. Miscannon of Steelton passed away after a yearlong journey with pancreatic cancer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard S. and Lenore Pasieka Miscannon, his father-in-law William J Fisher, his sister-in-law Barbara Ann Gain and his grandniece Leah Gain. He is survived by his wife Ellen Marie Fisher of Steelton, son Nathaniel and wife Eris of Steelton, son Andrew and wife Macey along with granddaughter Penelope of Catasauqua, and “Dragon” due any day; his brothers Thomas and wife Elba of Orlando, FL and Stephen of Harrisburg, sister-in-law Mary Catherine Fackler, brother in laws, William M. Fisher and wife Colleen Funk, and John W. Gain; as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins and treasured family and friends.

Self-described as “a simple young man from South Harrisburg,” Bernie was a graduate of Bishop McDevitt High School, Class of 1977. He completed his BS in Pharmacy from the former Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science (PCPS) and earned his MBA from Mount Saint Mary’s University, Emmitsburg, MD. He was a practicing pharmacist for nearly forty years, serving at Holy Spirit Hospital, Hanover Hospital, Polyclinic Hospital, Community General Osteopathic Hospital and finished his career at Hershey Medical Center. As a former president of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Society of Health System Pharmacists, he advocated the importance of mentorship within his profession. He honored the mentoring of Sister Alma O’Brien and Douglas Kent as role models in his formation.

Bernie was a member of the Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick in Harrisburg. He took great pleasure in his yearly silent retreat, always visiting a Trappist Monastery for prayer and spiritual guidance. His biggest honor was spending time at the Hermitage of Thomas Merton in Gethsemani, Kentucky as well as learning about and studying the writings of Henri Nouwen in Genesse, New York.

He was a founding member of the Paladin Golf Club, a standing member of the Harrisburg Cigar Club, The John Casteel Tuesday Night Fun Golf League, a season ticket holder for the Hershey Bears for over 25 years, and a proud “GDI” through and through. He was known to tell stories, laugh loud, and entertain spirited discussion with any and all willing participants. Bernie loved adventure, there was always planning for the next trip. Whether it was golf, concerts, days at the beach or planning international excursions, Bernie enjoyed life.

Mass of Christian Burial be celebrated on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 10:00 am in the Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick, 212 State Street, Harrisburg with Rev. Joshua Brommer, Pastor, Celebrant. A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 8:30 am - 10:00 am in the Cathedral. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Wiedeman Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Oberlin.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Harrisburg Catholic Elementary School or The Boys and Girls Club of Harrisburg. Bernie believed deeply in the importance of youth organizations and education to encourage young men and women to develop positive lifelong habits and skills, as well as camaraderie within communities and neighborhoods.

The family wishes to thank the Infusion Center at Hillman UPMC for their care and support as Bernie heroically faced his cancer. We wish to thank the nursing staff on G5 at UPMC for their love, support and unconditional care for Bernie as his health declined. As Bernie spent his last 12 days at Carolyn House, he was given the utmost care and attention to help vocalize his needs as well as provided support to the family.


PLEASE NOTE: Meter Parking is available on State street as well as the South Street Garage (220 South Street, Harrisburg, PA).