Longtime St. Peter’s High School math teacher Jerry Bradner was called home to his eternal reward on Saturday, April 1, 2023, after an extended illness. He was 59.
A native of Toledo, he graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School. Bradner served in the United States Army before becoming a teacher. Mr. Bradner joined the faculty at St. Peter’s in 1995 and remained a staff member until his retirement at the end of 2022. He taught all the upper-level math courses at St. Peter’s and was the advisor to several student organizations, including the St. Peter’s Chapter of the National Honors Society.
Mr. Bradner was always available to tutor his ‘yutes’ as he called his students. That willingness to support his students continued for many students into college, where Bradner would still help to tutor his former students in college math.
“Mr. Bradner was an institution at St. Peter’s School. His ability to convey complex math concepts to decades of students was only surpassed by his strong commitment to his faith and service to others, said “Laurie McKeon, St. Peter’s Head of School. “His guidance, leadership, and quiet humor will be missed and mourned by so many. His impact on the St. Peter’s community is broad, deep, and lasting.”
In an address to the Class of 2022, he told students, “Let Mary guide your heart, and just say yes. Make a difference, whether it’s a small thing or a big project…do something. You’re going to make mistakes and hit roadblocks. Say to Mary you need some help. She’ll pick you up, dust you off, give you a loving kick in the butt, and say get back in there. With her guiding you, you can’t lose.”
Funeral arrangements are still pending. Memorial contributions can be made to the Bradner Family Fund for Academic Excellence through the Msgr. Edward C. Dunn Foundation.
May eternal rest grant unto him, o Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.