Jack E. Bernard

Jack Edward Bernard, 88, passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2017, at Penrose St. Francis Hospital in Colorado Springs, CO. He was born on November 14, 1928, in Dayton, Ohio, to Albert E. and Delia M. Bernard.

Jack grew up in the Corry, PA area. He graduated from Titusville High School in Titusville, PA, at the age of 16. After high school, he worked on the Great Lakes for the Coast Guard. At the age of 20, Jack began his 20 year military career by signing with the United States Air Force. He retired at the rank of master Sergeant in May, 1968. While in the service, Jack obtained his Bachelor’s of Science degree. After his retirement from service, Jack completed his Master’s Degree from Indiana Northern University. He fulfilled his passion for teaching with a 40 year career at Colorado Technical University, with final retirement coming in 2008.

Jack married Betty Rogers in 1953 in Amarillo, Texas. They would have celebrated 65 years of marriage in June of next year.

Jack’s devotion to God was displayed by his many years of service through the building of churches, serving on various boards, and teaching Sunday School and Bible studies.

Jack was a great outdoorsman and shared that passion with his children, grandchildren, and many friends. He was always ready for hiking and fishing or could be found several times a week on a golf course. Jack and Betty both shared a love for bowling and belonged to several teams and leagues through the years. Jack also enjoyed traveling and visited almost every state in the union. He was a regular attendee of the WWII Veteran’s brunch each month and found joy in visiting and sharing stories of the good old days.

Jack will be missed by his wife Betty (Colorado Springs, CO); his children Mike (Shelley), Fergus Falls, MN; Vicki (Del) Klitzke, Lemmon, SD; Tim (Joni), Colorado Springs, CO; his grandchildren Cassie (Randy) Leabo, Caleb (Kami) Bernard, and Dylan Bernard; Holli (Sonny) Brennan and Marshall (Elisa) Klitzke; Dallas and Tyler Bernard and 6 great-grandchildren.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Delia, siblings Delores and Dale, and grandson Cody.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 3825 Airport Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80910. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 30, at 11:00 a.m. at Soul’s Harbor Church, 1715 East Fourth Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. Lunch will be provided following the funeral.