1926
2017
189 Gardners Neck Road
Swansea, Massachusetts
Leo Armand Bernier, age 90 of Swansea, a retired teacher and pharmacist died on June 9, 2017 after a short illness in Kimwell Nursing Home, Fall River.
He was the husband of Jacqueline T. Bernier. They were married in a double wedding ceremony on May 31, 1948.
Born August 15, 1926 in New Bedford, MA, he was the son of the late Leo & Olivine (Olivier) Bernier. He is also the father of the late Richard Bernier, and brother of the late Pauline (Bernier) Duquette.
He is survived by three daughters, Claudia Norman and husband Dana, Paula Comiskey, (husband) the late Jack Comiskey, all of Swansea, Anne-Marie Cardin, husband Michael of Manassas, VA. And five grandchildren, Lisa Norman Graham, and husband David, Steven Norman, Joann, Jody and Joseph Cestodio, and six great-grandchildren.
Leo served in the Army Air Corp during World War II. Following the war, he graduated from BMC Durfee High School. He then earned a Bachelor of Science in pharmacy at Northeastern University, Boston, and a Master of Science in Mathematics at Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY.
He taught Math for 30 years at Joseph Case High School, while also working as a pharmacist. He was Swansea's rep of the Diman Regional VTH School Committee, past Commander of American Legion Post 303 and Mass State Commander for its approximately 70,000 members, Chairman and Director of a children and youth scholarship program and legislative commissions on a national level. Leo found the most exciting years of his life watching his family grow.
His Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 1:00PM in the WARING-SULLIVAN HOME at BIRCHCREST, 189 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea, MA 02777. Visitation prior from 9:00 to 1:00PM. Burial private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his honor may be made to: Compassionate Care Hospice, 174 Dean Street Taunton MA 02780. Relatives and friends invited. For tributes and online registration: www.waring-sullivan.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Waring Sullivan Home Birchcrest Funeral and Cremation Service.
August 28, 2017
Teacher
Ron Deston
Mr. Benter - I will never forget you. While in high school (1960-1964) you instilled in me a love for mathematics that changed my life. You taught me algebra and plane geometry that has served me well during my 44 years as an engineering professional. Leo - You touched so many of us at Joseph Case High School. You will be forever remembered in a special place in my heart. Until we meet again my teacher, may you rest in peace.
June 24, 2017
Joe Duquette
When I think of the word humble, I think of Uncle Leo... His demeanor was so gentle, yet firm, a true listener, one who really cared... He was so proud of his family, and his country, spent much time being a friend with his father, my grandfather, in his later years... Uncle Leo taught me how to shoot a rifle as he did with many of the Boy Scouts of Troop 50 at St Anne's... His legend lives on in many different spheres in this world, as a teacher, a pharmacist, one who relieved other pharmacists giving them their much needed summer vacations - He had a smile for everyone - I didn't see him much, but when I did, it was as if it were yesterday when we last saw each other - if we are here on this planet to make a difference with our one life, Uncle Leo was a prime example of that from what has already been said, and by what has been left unsaid on hearts of others... Peace, Love, and Prayers to you Claudia, Paula, Anne-Marie, and all of your extended families...
June 23, 2017
Mr. Bernier was a wonderful, kind man. He was a teacher you remember fondly from high school years, who had a nice sense of humor and made math easier to understand.
Sincere condolences to his family.
Tony Ferreira
June 22, 2017
Mr. Bernier was my teacher in the 60's. Excellent teacher-excellent man. Rich Dumas
June 22, 2017
Kathy Sullivan
Rest In Peace Mr&Mrs Bernier, they were both such nice people.
June 21, 2017
Jane Bouvier Green
Condolences to everyone, I have many fond memories of your Mom and Dad. Especially the dinners and dances at the legion. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
June 21, 2017
Ann Antunes
So sorry for your loss. Leo was a wonderful person and a very kind man. He will be sadly missed. I'm sure my dad will welcome him with open arms , they were such great friends. My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.
June 21, 2017
Robert Sampson Veteran Agent
Rest in peace Leo. You have a legacy that will continue. Your dedicated service in both the U.S Army Air Corps and the American legion as well as the Swansea School system has been second to none. It has been a great pleasure to spend the times that we enjoyed with you.
June 21, 2017
Simone Blanchette
Paula, I'm so sorry hear about the loss of both your Mom and Dad. My prayers and thoughts are with you and all your family.
June 21, 2017
Peter Martelly, MD
Mr. Bernier always had a kind disposition and a gentle manner. A memorable teacher. My condolences to the Bernier family. I was a classmate of Richard's.
June 18, 2017
Susan Laraia
Mr. Bernier was one of my favorite teachers . He was a gentleman, quiet, kind and a very good geometry teacher. It showed he truly cared about his students learning and them as individuals as well. He stood out to me as a hard working man and a good man. I have always thought the world of him and he was well respected. May he rest in peace and condolences to his family.
June 18, 2017
Patrick Higgins
Mr. Leo Bernier was a very caring, loving, person who will be missed. I never heard criticism come out of his mouth. He would coach you to rethink your situation but not judge you on it.
I had the opportunity of his friendship and counsel for over 50 years and he will be missed.
Ann and family I am so sorry for your loss.
June 18, 2017
Eileen Smith
Love you Uncle Leo!
June 17, 2017
you will always be missed and loved your god child michelle
June 17, 2017
Jackie
Me Bernier was such a kind, gentle soul. I had him in 9th grade Algebra and he always took the time to explain until it was understood. May God rest his soul and bring peace and comfort to the family.
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Jun
24
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Waring Sullivan Home Birchcrest Funeral and Cremation Service189 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea, MA 02777
Jun
24
1:00 p.m.
Waring Sullivan Home Birchcrest Funeral and Cremation Service189 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea, MA 02777
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Waring Sullivan Home Birchcrest Funeral and Cremation Service189 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea, MA 02777
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