Bernie graduated from Morrill High School in 1977. Bernie’s higher education began with his associate's degree from WNCC, Scottsbluff, NE. He then went on to earn his bachelor's degree in education from the University of Wyoming in 1981 and finished with his master's in Elementary Education from Chadron State College in 1997. Bernie’s 42-year career in education began in 1984 at Crawford Elementary School, sparking a lifelong fire for shaping young minds.
1985 marked the start of his service with Kimball Public Schools, where he enlightened growing minds for the past 41 years. Within that time, he taught 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 6th grade. He had a specific passion for social studies that he taught during the later half of his career to 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students. An avid sports lover; Bernie coached flag football, Junior High boys and girls basketball, and both his son's and daughter’s numerous town sports teams. He dedicated his life to education both in and out of the classroom, investing countless hours in supporting and encouraging all the youth of Kimball to achieve their dreams and leaving a lasting impression to the children and families he impacted over the decades.
In the summer of 1988, Bernie’s life forever changed when he met the love of his life, Judy while working at the Kimball Municipal Swimming Pool. The two married almost a year to the day after they met on July 8, 1989, where they built a life centered on faith, family and service. This union was blessed through two children, a daughter, Jaycie and a son, Brendan.
Bernie loved spending time with his family, hiking and sharing his love of history with others, as well as, watching any sporting event. Especially the Huskers and any Colorado professional team and the Green Bay Packers. His favorites were the sporting events his children and nieces and nephews were participating in. Above all, the most important part of Bernie’s life was his personal relationship with Jesus Christ, which guided him in his roles as a husband, father, teacher, coach, and friend.
He is survived by his wife, Judy (Carlson) Walker; daughter Jaycie (Walker) and her husband Erik Blodgett, and soon expected grandson of Joint Base Lewis McChord, WA; son Brendan Walker of Kimball; father Dwight Walker; sister Julie Walker; brother Troy Walker; a loving extended in-law family; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. His mother, Hester Walker preceded him in death.
Bernie will forever be remembered for his kind heart, steady faith, calm demeanor, and the lasting impact he made on generations of students and families.
Memorials may be given in Bernie’s memory to either the Kimball Evangelical Free Church or the Kimball Public Schools Foundation. Friends may visit www.cantrellfh.com to share stories and condolences with the family. Celebration of life will be held at the Kimball High School Gymnasium on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
