Holocaust Survivor Bernat Rosner Dies at 94

Rosner rebuilt his life in the U.S. after enduring Auschwitz and Mauthausen, becoming a respected legal scholar.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:10pm

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Bernat 'Bernie' Rosner, a Holocaust survivor who overcame tremendous adversity to become a successful legal scholar and author, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on February 27, 2026. Born in Hungary, Rosner was orphaned as a teenager after surviving the Auschwitz and Mauthausen concentration camps. He was sponsored as a refugee to the United States by Charles Merrill Jr., the son of Merrill Lynch's co-founder, which changed the course of his life.

Why it matters

Rosner's life story serves as an inspiring example of resilience and the power of human kindness. As a Holocaust survivor, his experiences and advocacy for understanding and reconciliation provide important historical lessons. Rosner's successful career and community involvement also highlight the valuable contributions that refugees can make to American society.

The details

After earning degrees from Cornell University and Harvard Law School, Rosner practiced corporate law and retired as Vice-President and Lead General Counsel for Safeway corporation. In retirement, he co-wrote a book with friends detailing his life from the Holocaust to forging lasting friendships in California. Rosner is survived by his wife, three sons, stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

  • Bernat 'Bernie' Rosner passed away on February 27, 2026 at the age of 94.
  • A celebration of Rosner's life is scheduled for April 19th at 4pm in College Grove, Tennessee.

The players

Bernat 'Bernie' Rosner

A Holocaust survivor who rebuilt his life in the U.S. to become a respected legal scholar and author.

Charles Merrill Jr.

The son of Charles E. Merrill, co-founder of Merrill Lynch, who sponsored Rosner as a refugee to the United States after World War II.

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What’s next

A celebration of Rosner's life is scheduled for April 19th at 4pm at The Grove Country Club in College Grove, Tennessee.

The takeaway

Rosner's extraordinary journey from Holocaust survivor to successful American legal scholar and author serves as an inspiring example of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of compassion. His life and legacy remind us of the importance of understanding, reconciliation, and providing opportunities for those seeking refuge.