Bernard was born on September 15, 1943, in Boone County, Missouri, to the late Turner and Sarah (Crane) Dothage. He was raised in Columbia and spent his entire life on the same farm he called home for 82 years, a place that truly defined who he was.
He graduated from Hickman High School in 1961. On May 14, 1966, Bernard married the love of his life, Judy Bledsoe, in Columbia, Missouri. Together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage and raised one son, Scott.
Bernard was known for his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He owned and operated Dothage TV for many years and continued working well into his later years as the owner and operator of Central Missouri Golf Cars. Hard work was simply part of who Bernard was.
Above all else, Bernard was a farmer at heart. He loved his land, his cows, and the daily farm life. He was also an avid gardener who took great pride in growing vegetables for his family.
Bernard was a devoted family man who cherished his loved ones above everything else. Time spent with his family was what mattered most to him, and his love for them was evident in all that he did.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Dothage; his son, Scott Dothage and wife Kimberly; two granddaughters, Amber and Sydney Dothage; and a great-grandson, Logan. He is also survived by other relatives and many dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Words of comfort and support may be shared with the family at the visitation on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, Missouri. Services honoring and celebrating Bernard’s life will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Committal prayers and burial will take place at Columbia Cemetery in Columbia, Missouri.
