Rochester, NY: Bernard James Fagan, Aug 13th, 2021: Son of Richard & Mary Alice Fagan (O’Day). Affectionately referred to as ‘Bernie’ throughout his life, Bernard was a graduate of Caledonia High School and attended the University of Buffalo. In 1993, Bernie and teammates were inducted into the University of Buffalo Football Hall of Fame in recognition of their Lambert Cup winning (8-1) season (‘58). The ’58 Bulls famously declined a post-season Tangerine Bowl invitation (vs. FSU) after learning black teammates (Mike Wilson, Willie Evans) would not be allowed to participate. The discriminatory policy was that of a local district for the host stadium in Orlando, FL. This was the first post-season bowl invitation in Bulls history and six years before the civil rights act of 1964. The Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame has plans to recognize the team and induct coaches and players on Oct 14th , 2021. Details of the story are captured in the ESPN production of ‘Outside The Lines: All or Nothing’ (‘08).
Following college, Bernard enjoyed a 30 yr. teaching and coaching career with the Rochester City School District while raising a family in the Browncroft neighborhood of Rochester. His coaching highlights include winning a Section V outdoor track and field championship with East High School (’70-’75) and coaching Football at Edison Tech. Bernard finished his career teaching at Josh Lofton High School (86-’96). In recent years, Bernard enjoyed retirement in Green Valley, AZ.
Predeceased by wife, Charlene Martin (‘97), brother, Joseph (‘86). Survived by his wife, Susan Motten, brother, Richard (Suzanne), children: Kellie Mulvey (Kevin), Christopher (Cary), Barbara Fagan-Zelazny (Matthew), Martin (Patricia), Bernadette Regan (Patrick), Ben and Cassie Motten, 10 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Bernard’s Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 21 st at 9:00am at Corpus Christi Church, 864 E. Main Street, Rochester NY 14605 with his Funeral Mass following at 10:00am. Graveside service immediately following, Mt. Hope Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.