Dr. Bernard C. Wildgen's Obituary
Dr. Bernard C. Wildgen passed away Friday, August 25, 2006 in Holland. Dr. Wildgen was born October 30, 1916 to Henry and Susanne (Hain) Wildgen in Hoisington, Kansas. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Kansas in 1941. He served his country in the US Navy as a medical officer during WWII in the north and south, Pacific and Atlantic theaters where he achieved the officer rank of Lieutenant Commander. Upon return to civilian life he engaged in post graduate studies for 3 years at Harper Hospital and Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit. Dr. Wildgen spent 40 years in the practice of ophthalmology in Muskegon, retiring in 1988. He was former Chief of Staff at Mercy Hospital where he was involved in the development of the first intensive care unit in Muskegon. With Donald Reck, a successful surgical metal locator was developed and is currently on display at the Muskegon County Museum. Dr. Wildgen was also responsible for the first eye surgical microscope installation in Muskegon at Mercy Hospital. Memberships in societies include the county, state and national AMA Medical Societies, the American College of Surgeons and the Knights of Columbus. On December 29, 1941, he married the former Norma Nadine Woodhouse and after 53 years of marriage, she preceded him in death on July 3, 1994. Dr. Wildgen was a communicate member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. SURVIVORS include 6 children, Sarah “Sally” Wildgen, Bernard David (Elayne) Wildgen, Richard A. Wildgen, Norma Ann “Annie” (H. Bart) Merkle, Rebecca “Becky” (Richard) DeRose and James (Carol) Wildgen; 16 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Dr. Wildgen was also preceded in death by a grandson, David James Merkle and 3 brothers, Maurice, Joseph and Henry, Jr. Wildgen. A MEMORIAL MASS will be held 11:00 AM Monday, September 4, 2006 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Ernest J. Bernott presiding. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery with full military rites afforded by VFW Muskegon County Council. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to acquire a new eye microscope for the ophthalmology surgical suite at Mercy Hospital.
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