Obituary of Ralph F. Bernard

Ralph F. "Midge" Bernard, Jr. Granville, NY – Ralph F. "Midge" Bernard Jr, passed away unexpectedly on December 10, 2017 at Glens Falls Hospital. Midge was born on June 24, 1957 in Granville, New York the son of Ralph F. and Margaret "Peg" (Priest) Bernard. He was a standout athlete in high school, excelling in field and track and football. Midge was a loving Dad. He always found time to coach sports teams which his children were involved in. He had an extremely competitive spirit. This not only applied to sports but life in general. No matter what the competition was sporting or a board game, he never "let" the children win. He wanted them to always try hard and be the best they could be and "letting" them win was not teaching that lesson. He was an avid Yankee and Giants fan, just like his Dad. Midge also enjoyed deer hunting. Midge was a Master Electrician and carpenter. He worked at Telescope Casual Furniture for several years before starting Bernard Builders. Midge did a great deal of work in Castleton, Vermont the last few years. In addition to a work relationship, he became dear friends and travel companions with Bill and Sue Ryan and John and Winger Rehlen. Midge was a very generous man. Always wanting to help others. His kind and caring nature shined through whether it was buying a round of drinks in memory of his Dad or putting money in a Salvation Army Kettle. He was extremely proud of his Italian heritage and all that it stood for. Family was important to him. He was extremely close to his mother, and visited her at least three times a week. His kindness also reached extended family, aunts and uncles, or any one needing a hand. Once his mother was no longer able to cook her renowned Italian meals, he was happy to let his daughter Bianca fill the void with all she had learned from her grandmother. Midge was predeceased by his father, Ralph F. Bernard, Sr. Survivors are his mother Peg Bernard of Granville and his four children: Bianca Gusto (Kris) of Granville, Angela Trygestad (Sean) of Woodstock, GA, Melissa Bernard of Granville, and Derek Bernard of South Glens Falls, NY. He was blessed with seven grandchildren: Zachary, Conner, Austin, Jackson, Max, Dylan, Jenna. Midge is also survived by his siblings: Gale Bernard of Kennebunk, ME, Ben Bernard (Lori) of NC, Margaret McKeighan (Kenneth) of Granville, Stephen Bernard (Brooke) of Granville and Daniel Bernard (Sandy) of Granville. Midge also leaves behind Sandy DeLorme, his significant other, and Noah Bernard, a very special nephew both of Granville. In addition, he leaves behind his extended family with many nieces, nephews and cousins. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 15, 2017 at 11 AM at the Robert M King Funeral Home, 23 Church St., Granville, NY with Pastor Derrick Kirby presiding. Friends may call on Thursday, December 14th from 4 – 7 PM. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Granville Rescue Squad, POB 153, Granville, NY 12832 or to Revive Church, POB 231, Poultney, VT 05764.