Bernard E. “Bernie” Stumfoll, 93, of Victoria passed away on Monday, June 4, 2018. He was born in Chicopee, Kansas on April 4, 1925 to Edward and Frances Mertz Stumfoll. Bernie was the founder of Bernie’s Boats and Motors in 1957, but prior to that endeavor he was a partner in the 5-Point Texaco between 1946-1950. In 1950 he opened Bernie’s Sinclair until 1957 along with the opening of Chris-Craft Kit Boat Builder in 1952, the first in South Texas. Bernie was also involved in ranching.
He was very active in the community serving as president of the Victoria Jaycees (1955-56), past president of the Mid-Coastal Sportman Club and past president of the Texas Boating Trade Association.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Koehl Stumfoll, of Victoria; daughters, Shirley Jean (Rance) Wilson of Pleasanton, Mary Ellen Stumfoll of Victoria; son, Dennis (Barbara) Stumfoll of Victoria; sister, Loretta Lawrence of Victoria; five grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018 from 6-8 pm. Graveside services will be at
10 am on Monday, June 11, 2018 at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Bernie proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy so full military honors under the auspices of the Victoria Veterans Council will be conducted at the graveside.
Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Allen Stumfoll, Dub Wilkinson, Ted Love, Chad Koehl, Rance Wilson, Shannon Pilat, Brandon Lala, Edward Koehl and Dr. Larry Riedel.
Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 106 N. DeLeon, Victoria, TX 77901, Hospice of South Texas Dornburg Center of Compassion, 1005 Mallette Drive, Victoria, TX 77904 or charity of donor’s choice.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
