About

Bernie lived a life defined by hard work, family, friendship, and a genuine love for people. He was a man who believed in doing things the right way, treating others with respect, and leaving things better than he found them.

For much of his life, he worked alongside his father on the family egg farm. Together they built a successful farming operation, dedicating countless hours to caring for their laying hens and producing eggs for families throughout the region. Farming was more than a career—it was a way of life that taught responsibility, perseverance, and pride in a job well done.

While Bernie enjoyed conversation and friendship, work always came first. He believed there would be time for socializing once the job was done. Those who worked with him knew they could count on him to give his best effort every day and to expect the same from those around him.

Beyond farming, Bernie possessed an incredible ability to build and repair almost anything. During the winter months, he often worked on home renovations, additions, and barn construction. He was happiest when creating something with his hands, solving a problem, or helping someone in need.

One of his proudest accomplishments was building the family cottage. More than simply constructing a place to spend summers, he turned it into a family project. He involved all three of his sons in the work, and his father, Tony, a craftsman as well. Three generations worked side by side, building not only a cottage but memories and lessons that would last a lifetime. The cottage became a place where family gathered, stories were shared, and summers were treasured for many years.

After retiring from farming, Bernie began working with Doug Geoffrey Construction. His experience, leadership, and strong work ethic quickly earned him a leadership role. While he enjoyed the work itself, it was the people he valued most. He loved the friendships, conversations, and camaraderie that came with being part of a team.

Bernie was also a gifted storyteller. Whether sitting around a kitchen table, visiting with neighbors, or spending time with friends and family, he always seemed to have a story ready to share. His stories made people laugh, think, and feel connected. More importantly, they reflected his genuine interest in others and his belief that every person had a story worth hearing.

Retirement brought another wonderful chapter to his life. After the cottage was sold, he and Annette embraced a new adventure in Arizona. There, he built another community of friends and enjoyed some of the happiest years of his life. He loved hiking, playing cards, sharing stories, and spending time with the many people he met along the way. His warmth, kindness, and sense of humor made him easy to like and impossible to forget.

Family and friends often turned to Bernie for advice. He had a practical wisdom that came from experience and a unique ability to put life's challenges into perspective. He listened carefully, spoke thoughtfully, and had a way of making people feel understood.

Bernie built many things during his lifetime, but his greatest legacy is not found in the farms, barns, homes, or cottages he helped create. It lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, the values he passed on, and the countless lives he touched.

We invite you to explore the photos, videos, and memories collected here. Together they tell the story of a hardworking farmer, talented builder, respected leader, trusted friend, devoted family man, and gifted storyteller whose influence continues to be felt every day.

Though his stories have ended, the memories he created will continue to be shared for generations to come.