7/3/2020 7:50:00 AM Frank Bernard dies following lengthy illness
Frank W. Bernard, 80, a longtime Stewartville area farmer, died on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 at his home, following a long illness with congestive heart failure.
Frank Wayne Bernard was born on June 13, 1940 in Chatfield to Bert and Doris (Brown) Bernard. His mother died when he was three and his father when he was 13. From that age he lived with his sister and her husband, Minnie and Chad Bandel. He attended Chatfield schools, graduating from Chatfield High School in 1958. He was employed in construction and worked for AG Strobel Co. in Rochester and had begun farming as well.
Frank was married on Sept. 9, 1962 at Chatfield Lutheran Church to Arla J. Olson. Following their marriage the couple lived on a farm in Pleasant Grove Township, where they raised their children and have continued to make their home. Frank was a lifelong farmer and had always hoped to farm to the age of 80. Arla was employed as a nurse at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, working in different departments and facilities for over 40 years. Frank was an Allis Chalmers farmer, drove Chevy trucks, was an expert farm mechanic and fix-it man, and was always ready to help neighbors or travelers in need. He was a regular coffee drinker at Caseys South in Stewartville and liked visiting with pretty much everybody. Frank loved time spent with family, especially his grandsons.
Frank's family would like to thank everyone at Mayo Clinic for their excellent care and kindness, with special thanks to Dr. Pauley.
Frank is survived by his wife, Arla; one daughter, Kelly (Steve) Gunderson of Cottage Grove; his son, Brett Bernard (Kristi Lang) of rural Stewartville; four grandsons, Vincent Bernard, Wyatt Bernard, Eric Gunderson and Luke Bernard; and his sister, Mary Bernard of Stewartville.
He was preceded in death by his parents, six sisters and five brothers.
In keeping with Frank's wishes, no service or visitatio is planned at this time. A private family burial will take place at Orion Cemetery in Cummingsville at a later date.
Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville. On-line condolences and memories of Frank are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com.
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