Dr Bernard James Krask

Dr. Bernard James Krask, 88, of Frederick died on Saturday, October 1, 2011 at his home. He was the husband of Doris Krask.

Born in Chicago on April 3, 1923, he was the son of the late Barney and Jeanette Monkowska Krask.

Dr. Krask was awarded a Ph. D. in microbial biochemistry from the University of Chicago in 1956. The University of Chicago scientists founded the biological warfare program at Ft. Detrick in 1941. Bernard moved to Frederick in 1957 to take a position as a research scientist and later served as Assistant Director of Biological Laboratories until he left in 1971. Subsequently, he worked for the National Institutes of Health, at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, as a program director of 17 major medical schools, deemed Specialized Centers of Research, conducting research on arteriosclerosis. He retired in 1985. After retirement he served as a consultant for Jerome Blondell Medical Research laboratories funded by the American Red Cross and also Flow Research in Rockville.

Dr. Krask served as a combat medic in World War II with the 86th Chemical Mortar Battalion from 1943 to 1945. He was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in Normandy, the Silver Star in 1944 for gallantry in action, and the Purple Heart for wounds suffered in Germany. Since his wounds precluded him from further combat service he worked as a medical assistant in several military hospitals in England and France until his discharge in 1945.

Bernard was a musician, as well as a scientist, and received a master's degree from Balatka Musical College in Chicago and enjoyed a lifelong love of music.

In addition to his wife, Doris, he is survived by their five children, Elizabeth Tsakiris (husband George) of Germantown; David Krask (wife Lesley) of Laurel; Karen Krask (husband Dr. John Sheldon) of Frederick; Robert Krask (wife Kimberley) of Virginia Beach, VA; and Peter Krask of New York; and seven grandchildren, Karena and Elias Tsakiris; Evan, Dylan, and Mary Rose Sheldon; and Matthew and Julie Krask. He also is survived by a sister, Aldona Kohn of Frederick.

Memorlal contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Society for Microbiology.

Arrangements are being handled by Keeney & Basford Funeral Home, Frederick., and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.keeneybasford.com. All services will be private. Bernard will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date and will be given a hero's burial. May he rest in peace. Amen.