Bernard Vincent Navatto, Jr.

Bernard Vincent Navatto, Jr., 73, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on October 4, 2024.

Born in Somerville to Bernard Vincent Navatto, Sr. and Violet Ball Navatto, Bernard was raised in Bridgewater with his sister Jeanne. A graduate of Bridgewater West High School, he studied forestry and then accounting at the University of Maine in Orono where he made lifelong friendships. After college, he returned to New Jersey and soon joined his father’s accounting practice, married his wife Barbara Arena Navatto, and settled in Somerville. Together they raised two children, Joseph and Margaret.

In addition to his CPA practice, Bernard leaves a long legacy of accomplishment in Somerville and Somerset County. As a longtime member and chairman of both the municipal and county planning boards, he was instrumental in the revitalization of downtown Main Street Somerville and the surrounding area through an innovative, collaborative approach that culminated in award winning vision and redevelopment plans for Division Street, West Main Street, the former Landfill on Rt 206 and the Somerset Station development at the Train Station. Through his work with Arts on Division, Bernard assured the continuing operation of the Tour of Somerville bicycle race, shepherding it through transitions and post COVID challenges.

Bernard was a born outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, shooting, camping and even flying small airplanes as an amateur pilot. He also spent many years volunteering with Somerset County 4-H, both as a financial advisor and as a club leader.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years Barbara, sister Jeanne and husband Tucker, his loving children Joseph Navatto and wife Elizabeth, and Margaret Navatto and wife Shahna Sherwood, and his adored grandchildren Elliot, Violet and Salvatore.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:00PM on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

Family and friends are welcome to gather at 9:00AM on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at St. John's Episcopal Church, 158 West High Street Somerville for a 10:00AM Celebration of Life Service.  To join us online please CLICK HERE

Interment will follow at New Cemetery, Somerville.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bernie's memory to Middle Earth Click Here to donate online