Willard Jacob Bernhardt
November 15, 1931 to December 2, 2014
Willard was born in near Billings, Montana to Jacob and Marie Bernhardt. He grew up on his grandparent’s farm with his two brothers, Gene and Robert and sister Donna. He started his cowboying early by riding his horse to school and riding with his siblings to the Yellowstone River where they took their horses for a swim. After graduating from high school he worked on the grandparent’s farm and then joined the Army for a two year stint as a cook and was stationed in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He returned to Montana and worked on various ranches in the Billings and Two Dot area. He moved to White Sulphur Springs in the early 60’s. He worked at the local sawmill, had a chainsaw repair business and worked for the State Highway Department for 17 years. In 1989, he married June Carr and spent many years helping area ranches move and brand cattle. He also enjoyed many activities with her such as the Meagher County Rodeo Club, Hornet Booster Club, Volunteer Firemen, and the 4-H Clubs of Meagher County. Willard and June both retired on the same day and enjoyed their garden and raising calves, chickens and horses.
Willard will be greatly missed by his family. His children, Sidnie Bernhardt, Denise and Mike Brackett and Willie John Bernhardt. June’s children held a special place in his heart Elaine and Lee Hollings, Nikki Carr, and Craig and Tracy Carr. His grandchildren include Marla Johnston, Ryan Johnston, Kaylyn Johnston, Jessica Eden, Konrad Eden, Olivia Eden, Beau Bernhardt, Marissa Bernhardt, Brianna Bernhardt, Shane Day, Kari Day, Jamie Cheatham, Cori Carr Hogstad and Chelsie Carr Sweats. Great grandchildren, Riata, Wacey and Isabelle. As well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Willard is preceded in death by his wife, June Carr Bernhardt, his parents, and brothers Robert and Gene his sister Donna.
Cremation has taken place and services will take place at a later time. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Willard’s name to White Sulphur Springs Senior Center, Hornet Booster Club or Meagher County Rodeo Club.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
12:00 p.m.
Friday February 27, 2015
Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
103 East Garfield
White Sulphur Springs, Montana 59645
Graveside Service
Following the memorial service
Friday February 27, 2015
Mayn Cemetery
White Sulphur Springs, MT 59645
Reception
Following the graveside service
Friday February 27, 2015
Senior Center
101 1st Avenue Southeast
White Sulphur Springs, Montana 59645
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
12:00 p.m.
Friday February 27, 2015
Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
103 East Garfield
White Sulphur Springs, Montana 59645
Graveside Service
Following the memorial service
Friday February 27, 2015
Mayn Cemetery
White Sulphur Springs, MT 59645
Reception
Following the graveside service
Friday February 27, 2015
Senior Center
101 1st Avenue Southeast
White Sulphur Springs, Montana 59645
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Jim and Margaret Prosser says
Willard was one of the last true cowboys. We helped mow his yard after Junes passing and he wanted us to plant him a garden, I think he just wanted to watch it grow. He was so comical because he was the only person who wanted radishes for his radish sandwiches. He will always be a memory to me such a loss he was so pleasant to sit and talk to from time to time.
Neighbor says
Sincere condolences to the family: May you find comfort in knowing that you have the love of ALMIGHTY GOD who is near to those broken at heart. May the love of God, friends and family carry you through this difficult time. Psalm 34 : 18.
Julie Rader says
Sid and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You dad came over and visited my mom a lot recently when my brother died. He always seemed to make my mom smile. Dennis used to make sure their wood was split and carried to the porch. I know they helped him out more than he helped them.
You dad always spoke highly of you and he would glow when he talked about you. He said that you still helped him iron his wranglers. He was a true cowboy and he will be missed.
Julie, Scott and Brayden Rader
Sherry Bernhardt Essmann says
Your dad, my Uncle Sonny, held a special place in my heart. I have so many fun memories growing up with him in our house. When the brothers got together (Robert, Gene and Willard) you never knew what might happen. We had several visits over the last few years, but not nearly enough. Both my husband and I enjoyed sitting around the kitchen table with June and Willard and listening to their stories. He was always my perfect idea of a cowboy, and I will miss him. Love and many happy memories to Sidnie, Denise, and Willie John.
Sharon says
y heart goes out to your family. I am so sorry for your loss. What pain hurts worse than the pain of losing someone that you love. Willard was loved and he will be dearly missed. Again, I am so sorry. Though the pain you’re feeling must seem unbearable, please remember that you are not alone. Psalms 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a help that is readily found in times of distress.” Pray to Him for strength. Weep to Him when there are no words. One of the poets of the Bible said at Psalms 56:8, “You keep track of my wandering. Do collect my tears in your skin bottle.” You see, God understands your pain and He cares for you very much (1 Peter 5:7). And He will really help you get through this difficult time (Isaiah 41:10).