Wednesday, April 15, 2026
I loved and will forever love Bernie and his entire family, including all I do not know, but especially Jannette, Joe, and Mr. and Mrs. Bartlett. Friends since 8th grade. Forever friends. Great memories of a summer painting houses together while singing “The Impossible Dream”, playing basketball and softball in our 20’s (He was the best coach! I never enjoyed playing the game more than when playing on his teams), being near him when he first met Jennifer and seeing his wondrous enchantment with Jennifer before and after their wedding, and so much more…then busy with life and only a few brief reunions with Bernie, but he was always the same very special and extraordinary man and friend.
And with those eyes, he could look deep into my soul, knowing me and others, never judging me or anyone with condemnation, always loving, encouraging, and quietly inspiring.
Bernie and his family impacted my life greatly in ways I never fully shared with him, but thanks to God and Guy Howerton, I was able to share with him, in part, in person a month ago, when he knew he would die soon, and when he once again so simply, deeply, and authentically loved Guy and me. I look forward to being with Bernie and all our loved ones again in the afterlife.
Jeff Johnson
