Phillip B. Bernatz, Jr., 67, of Austin, Minnesota, died peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017, at his residence, Elmwood in Austin.

Phillip Jr. was born on Dec. 29, 1949, to Phillip and June (Petersen) Bernatz in Rochester, Minnesota. Phil led a good and long life with Down syndrome. He was able to take several trips over the years, including Hawaii and a dude ranch in Arizona.  Phil loved music, including Johnny Cash and Elvis, and was known for his Elvis impersonations. He enjoyed being a cowboy and watching old westerns. Phil also enjoyed sports, especially football. Phil enjoyed being a member of the Arc of Mower County.

Survivors include his brothers, Tim (Joy) Bernatz, Austin, and Tom (Beverly) Bernatz, St. Joseph, Minnesota; their sons, Scott (Holly) Bernatz and family, Farmington, Minnesota, and Trent (Missy) Bernatz and family, Hastings, Minnesota; an aunt, Gail Berge, Kasson, Minnesota; and many cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and June Bernatz.

The family would like to thank all of Phil’s caretakers, past and present, from REM. Special thanks to all the staff from Elmwood for your heartwarming care given to Phil.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, at Mayer Funeral Home with Father Jim Steffes officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service Saturday at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.