Bernardino Toledo-Ruiz's Obituary
Bernardino, or Bernie, was born in Tijuana, Mexico on January 11th, 1967 and passed
away at Sharp Memorial hospital on March 18th, 2026. Today, Bernie is survived by his mother, Lourdes, who deeply mourns the loss of her son. His father, Evencio, passed away a few years ago. Bernie was one of seven siblings who are survived by him today: Lilia, Jesus, Pablo, Gustavo, Susana, and Rosa.
In addition, Bernie is survived by his loving wife, Shayla Toledo, his daughters, Vanessa and Marissa, and his son Bernie, Jr. Furthermore, Bernie’s life would not be complete without his five grandsons: Jayden, Darian, Bryson, Aiden, and Austin, all who loved their Tata with all of their hearts and will help keep his memory alive.
On a regular day, you could see Bernie enjoying an ice-cold Canada Dry or snacking on some of his favorite candies and snacks, such as Air Heads, cookies, or anything sour. No matter how little he had left of his food, Bernie would never hesitate to share it so he could make sure the other person was happy.
Bernie also loved watching various television shows and movies, especially anything to do with World War II - sometimes watching the same movie or show over and over again. When it comes to one of his favorite movies, The Ten Commandments (1956), directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Charlton Heston as Moses, the family cannot help but remember our dad’s most favorite moment in the movie when God answers Moses at the burning bush: “I am that I am.” This moment in both the movie and The Bible, Exodus 3:14, both demonstrate God’s divine and eternal presence before Moses. As a deeply religious man, Bernie lived his life every day in that divine presence, praying to his Father, knowing that He would always be there to heal and guide him and his loved ones through the most difficult of times.
The Toledo Family would like to thank everyone for their love and immense support
during this very difficult time. Bernie knew how much he is loved and all the people who are here to love and take care of us as we mourn the loss of our dad and friend, Bernardino “Bernie” Toledo-Rios. We love and miss you, Dad.
What’s your fondest memory of Bernardino?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bernardino?
Share a story where Bernardino's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bernardino you’ll never forget.
How did Bernardino make you smile?