He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters: Noreene Homza and Susie Farrar.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years: Bonnie S. Butler; children: Christopher Butler (Stephanie), Robin Tillman (David); grandchildren: Shannon Butler (Porter), Cheyenne Tillman, Connor Butler, Colton Tillman, and Montana Tillman; brother: Norman Butler; numerous nieces, nephews and other family members and friends.
Bernard was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. At the age of 17, he joined the Army National Guard and then graduated from Thomas Edison High School in 1954. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Administration from Southwest Texas State University in 1985. Bernard is also a graduate of the Army Officer Candidate School, and the Army Command and General Staff College. Bernard received his 2nd Lieutenant appointment in May 1962. He honorably served the Army National Guard for 42 years, 6 months and retired as a Colonel. Bernard also worked for 39 years in civil service for the Department of the Air Force at Kelly Air Force Base.
Bernard met the love of his life on New Year’s Eve 1963 as a set-up. He agreed to show up for the party and then leave, Bonnie also agreed to show up and leave. Well, neither left the party early. They were engaged by the end of January and married April 4, 1964. They were blessed with two children, Chris and Robin, and they were married for a wonderful 58 ½ years.
Outside of work, Bernard was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was always ready for deer hunting season and spent a great deal of time taking his family on camping trips and teaching them love for the outdoors. Our family spent many wonderful times on different lakes throughout Texas, but we mostly loved our time at Canyon Lake almost every Saturday, swimming, boating, skiing and just have great family time.
Bernard was a dedicated family man. He worked long hours at Kelly AFB, spent weekends at National Guard, taking college courses and was often sent to military schools during the summer – where he would bring his family with him. He always made time for dinner at the table, weekends and vacations with family.
Bernard was passionate about God, learning all he could about the Bible and he served as a Deacon and then an Elder at Lackland Terrace Church of Christ. He also spent a great deal of time preaching at Lackland Air Force Base for basic trainees on Sundays. He taught many Bible classes, opened his home to the youth groups and volunteered many hours to the church. Bernard began sending many of his sermons and scripture studies via email to friends and family and that list became long and we all looked forward to our daily scripture study.
After retiring, Bernard and Bonnie discovered a love for taking cruises with their extended family. They developed a unique and close relationship with his nephew Tom Farrar and his wife Julie. The trips would often also include other family members including Bernard’s niece, Debbie Dauer and family. When not traveling the world, Bernard and Bonnie would spend time with extended family celebrating birthdays, anniversaries or just going out to eat and sharing time.
Bernard had a very quick wit and amazing comedic timing. The best part is he was usually was only laughing on the inside with just this slight smile on the outside. But he sure could make everyone else around him burst with laughter while he just had that slight smile on his face. In fact, the first time Bonnie heard him laugh out loud was at the movies – after they were married!
Bernard adored his grandchildren. He attended as many of their activities as possible. He and Bonnie would attend Grandparent’s Day at school, volleyball and basketball games for Cheyenne, Colton’s football games and was able to attend one of Montana’s cheer competitions in San Antonio. Bernard and Bonnie faithfully attended high school football games to see Shannon march in the band, watch Connor’s soccer games and listened to the high school football team’s games on the radio. Bernard loved getting videos from all the kid’s activities and always wanted to talk to them on the phone to keep updated. He was so proud of all his grandkids!
Bernard will be missed by all of us. But we also know that he is back to his old self and is whole again and is with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In one of his last scripture studies, he sent this to his nephews and nieces
My Prayer...
O Great God of the heavens, thank you for caring for me when I am such a small part of your great work in the universe. Your love is beyond my comprehension and yet it thrills me to know that in your grace one day I will see you face to face. In Jesus' name I praise you. Amen.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 from 6:00pm-9:00pm at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home.
Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 29, 2022 at 10:00am, San Pedro Church of Christ, 311 Jackson Keller Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216
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