Bernhard Vollmin

Bernhard “Bernie” Vollmin, also known as “The Swiss Carpenter,” age 84, of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Bernie was born on April 30, 1941, in Blanquefort, France, to Joseph and Minni Vollmin. He was the ninth of ten children. He was raised in Liestal, Switzerland, for most of his childhood. As an adventurous teenager, he became a carpenter apprentice, where he discovered his lifelong passion for working with wood.  He proudly served in the Swiss Armed Forces. After serving his country, he traveled through Europe's countryside, gaining experience and perfecting his carpentry skills along the way.

In early 1961, Bernhard met Regina while traveling in Austria. He knew he had found a real gem.  Soon after, he immigrated to the United States ahead of Regina to start their American dream. After Bernie settled in New Jersey, Regina joined him, while she was seven months pregnant and they got married in September 1961 in New Jersey. They welcomed their first child Monica in November 1961 and their second child Michael in January 1963.

He held his native Switzerland country close to his heart, returning several times to take in the beauty of the Swiss Alps and visit his family and friends. Bernie and Regina shared more than 64 wonderful years of marriage. They loved Oktoberfest celebrations because they felt like home.  He was known for his festive Bavarian hats and for being the life of the party.

In 1970, Bernie's dreams came true when he established his own carpentry business, “The Swiss Carpenter.” He was a true master of his craft. He was known in Northern New Jersey for his precision, dedication, and tireless work ethic.  Regina worked alongside Bernie for 25 years, and together they built their dream.

When Bernie “built” something, he built it to last.  His carpentry, his relationships, and his love for everyone. Bernie was truly a one-of-a-kind individual. To know him was to love him. While he could be rough around the edges, he had a heart of gold and deep devotion to his family and friends. Once Bernie became a grandfather in 1987, he was forever called “OPA” by his immediate family and close friends.

Bernhards other passion was soccer. He joined the Sportfriends Soccer Club back in the 1960’s, now based in Wayne, NJ.  He played on and coached several Sportfriends teams over the years. He devoted countless hours volunteering, helping with improvements to the club facilities, and assisting with fundraisers. For more than 60 years, Bernie could be found at the soccer club nearly every weekend—either playing, watching games, or lending a hand while having the occasional cigar or two.

Bernhard will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Regina Vollmin; his two children, daughter Monica Luyster and son Michael Vollmin and his partner Annette Kenyon; his five grandchildren, Natalie Kazak and her husband Corey Kazak, Brian Luyster and his wife Kiara Luyster, Lindsay McGee and her husband Jeff McGee, Michael Vollmin and his wife Stephanie Vollmin, and Elizabeth Vollmin; and his four great-grandchildren, Weston, Holden, Cooper, and Colton. He will also be greatly missed by his extended family in Switzerland, his Sportfriends Soccer family, and many close friends.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to the Sportsfriends Soccer Club in his name.  P.O. Box 72, Wayne, NJ  07470.