|
In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
BERNARD, Earl Oscar - 96, passed away in Norquay, Saskatchewan on Friday, March 19, 2021, with family by his side.
Earl was born March 1, 1925, in Norquay, to Oscar and Nannie Bernard. He was their only child and when Oscar tragically died seven years later, young Earl valiantly took on caring for his mother and tending to the family farm. He joined the Navy after finishing school and served until the end of the Second World War. After returning home, he continued farming with his uncles.
On July 10, 1952, Earl wed the love of his life, Joyce Dahlin, and they were blessed with three children: Debra, Douglas and Rodney. He ran the Bernard-Hindorff General Store in Norquay until 1963 when the family moved to a property one-mile south of town. There, his love of farming flourished and remained a part of his life until his death.
In 1972, Earl ventured into construction and went on to build approximately 200 homes throughout his career. The final house he built was for his wife when he retired and moved off the farm into town. He resided there until transitioning into the Norquay Health Centre in 2019.
Earl was a pillar of the community, sitting on the very first Norquay Town Council and organizing numerous trade shows and events. He was even inducted into the Norquay Sports Hall of Fame for his involvement with coaching hockey and curling. Curling was a passion of his and when he could no longer play, he enjoyed cheering others on at the local rink and faithfully watched tournaments on television.
Known for his larger-than-life personality and fun-loving spirit, he was always ready with a quirky joke or captivating story over coffee at his favourite hangout, The Whistle Stop. In recent years he would often be seen zipping around town on his Roughriders-decorated scooter (he was a loyal fan) before heading up the ramp to the cafe.
Earl was happiest when surrounded by his family. A proud, strong, and well-respected man, he will be dearly missed by so many.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Bernard; children, Debbie Nelson (Bruce), Doug Bernard, and Rod Bernard; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and additional relatives. He was predeceased by his parents, Oscar and Nannie Bernard as well as other family and friends.
The memorial service was held Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Norquay Evangelical Covenant Church. Those wishing to express sympathy may make a donation to either the Norquay Evangelical Covenant Church or Norquay Health Centre, in memory of Earl Bernard.
|
