Bernard Albert Wynstra

Bernard A. “Bernie” Wynstra, 90 of Waterloo, formerly of Racine, WI, and Winterhaven, FL, died on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo.

He was born September 13, 1935, in Racine, the son of Alex and Henrietta (Hogeboom) Wynstra. He graduated from Horlick High School in 1954 and obtained his music certification from Moody Bible Institute in 1957. He graduated from Wheaton College with a bachelor’s degree in music education in 1960 and went on to obtain his master’s degree in music education from Vandercook College of Music in 1970.

Bernie married Marilyn J. Tieszen on June 18, 1960, at the Christian & Missionary Alliance Church in Mason City.

He was a music teacher for over 30 years. His career started in Lawrence, MI, where he taught all music (vocal and instrumental) for the consolidated school district there for two years. He moved back to Racine where he taught band and orchestra for 30 years at Mitchell and Jerstad Agerholm Junior High Schools, retiring in 1992. He also directed the church choir at Racine Bible Church for several years.

After retiring, Bernie and Marilyn spent 26 years in Winterhaven, FL, first as snowbirds, then as permanent residents. In 2020, they moved to Iowa to be closer to family.

Bernie greatly enjoyed woodworking, and he made many wooden toys for grandchildren, as well as clocks for his sons, and one for Marilyn for her retirement.

He and Marilyn loved to travel. Over the years, they saw all 50 states, China, Australia, New Zealand, Israel (their trip of a lifetime), and many parts of Europe. They also went on numerous cruises, including one in the Mediterranean to visit Ephesus, and a riverboat cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.

Bernie is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Marilyn Wynstra of Waterloo; four sons, Rob (Julie) Wynstra of Racine, WI, Jim (Cheran) Wynstra of Sioux Falls, SD, John (Jennifer) Wynstra of Cedar Falls, and Doug (Janeen) Wynstra of South Milwaukee, WI; 10 grandchildren, Betty, Melissa, David, Joshua (Abby), Caleb, Jared, Joseph, Daniel, Nicole, and Marie; and six great-grandchildren, Angelina, Michaela, Andrew, Vinny, Alessia, and Arielle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 13 brothers and sisters; and his first wife, Betty Rupert.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Locke on 4th, 1519 West 4th Street, Waterloo. Visitation for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to Cedar Valley Hospice, Samaritan’s Purse, or a charity of donor’s choice. To leave condolences and view a live stream of services, visit www.LockeFuneralServices.com. Locke on 4th is assisting the family. Locke on 4th, 319-233-6138.