Benard J. "Bernie" Pollack
June 29, 2026

BENARD J. "BERNIE" POLLACK: On Monday, June 29, 2026, Age 96, Beloved husband of 68 years to the late Jane Pollack; father of Leslie (Larry) Nudelman of Denver, CO and the late Mark L. Pollack; father-in-law of Seema Pollack Gross; grandfather of Sam Pollack, Max (Marlee) Pollack, Ross (Kelly) Nudelman; great-grandfather of Kaylee and Claire Nudelman; brother of Marvin (Charlotte) Pollack.

Bernie grew up in Scranton, PA and went on to attend Penn State University where he met the love of his life, Jane. As a young man, he served in the Navy. Always good with numbers, Bernie began his career as a CPA in Pittsburgh before deciding to start his own business. In 1955, with help from his father-in-law Ralph Bonn, Bernie founded Ralph's Army Surplus, an Army Navy surplus store, in Monroeville, PA. The business continued to grow and later expanded to sell other goods including work clothing and camping gear. Bernie's son Mark later joined him in the business and it remained in the family until 2001. The business continued to operate under different ownership through 2024.

In addition to being a successful business person, Bernie had an excellent sense of humor and was also a passionate and skilled investor. While not exactly an early adopter of technology, he was interested in technology companies and enjoyed discussing the stock market with friends and his grandchildren. Outside of business, Bernie was passionate about sports and was a lifelong fan of Pittsburgh and Penn State sports teams. He also enjoyed golfing, especially with his grandchildren. Bernie also enjoyed many winters with his family in Longboat Key, FL.

The family would like to thank all of the caregivers, especially Dorie and Bill who spent six years with Bernie, for their unwavering support.

Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside, on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 10 AM. No Prior Visitation. Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery. www.schugar.com

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Temple David offers condolences in memory of Bernard Pollack, z''l. The Pollacks were charter members and were held in high regard by our congregation. Remembrances of our charter members serve as bridges between our past and our future. We owe much to these foundation stones, and we express our deepest appreciation and respect.

By Jay Goodman - July 10, 2026

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My deepest condolences on the loss of your father. I started working at Ralphs in 1985 and worked there for 35 years. I loved both your father and your brother who passed away much too soon. I also have fond memories of babysitting Sam and Max when they were just very very young. We were like family, and I will never forget them!

By Dee North - July 07, 2026

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Dear Leslie, my brothers and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family. Your father was a very dear friend to our parents who treasured their friendship with him and your mother tremendously. Your father was a true mensch who made such a positive impact through all of his endeavors. May his memory be a blessing forever.

By Marilyn Levy - July 04, 2026

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Dear Leslie and family, My deepest sympathy at the passing of your dear father. I worked at Ralph’s a very long time ago, spending much time with your father, grandfather Ralph, and just a bit with Mark. While I was working, being with each was a pleasure; I learned much from your father and Ralph about managing others that I still use today. May the memories of them you carry with you, as well of your mother, always be a blessing.

By Rita Verk Zolot - July 02, 2026

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