Obituary of James Nicholas Bernhard

With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of James (“Jim”) Nicholas Bernhard on February 20, 2023 at the age of 78. Jim was born on November 12, 1944 in Humboldt, SK and is predeceased by his parents, Nick and Theresa (nee Cales). He is survived and lovingly remembered by his children: daughter Shannon and sons Dean (Donna) and Curtis (Bev), along with seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He will also be dearly missed by his close-knit siblings: Diane, Ron (Linda), and Pat (Dave); close friend and former wife Heather; long-time friends Jack and Marcia; and numerous nieces and nephews along with extended family members and friends.

As a teenager Jim moved to Saskatoon from Humboldt and began his working career, which initially included a job working at the King George Hotel as an elevator boy. Jim eventually landed a job in the automotive engine and parts field, which was one of his early interests, working for a period of time at Crankshaft Service and Supply (which became Universal Engine Service). Thereafter, Jim undertook a career pivot, embarking on a successful and respected 30-year career at Sears Canada as a furniture salesman. He thoroughly enjoyed the co-worker camaraderie and the friendships resulting from such. Beyond making a ‘sale’, Jim always had genuine time to just ‘shoot the breeze’ with a lot of his long-standing customers. Jim’s interests and hobbies included: rod and custom car shows (with son Curtis); family and siblings get-togethers; extended family reunions back in the Humboldt/Muenster area; crosswords; road trips behind the wheel; and preparing fresh batches of ‘Jimbos’ mustard. He was also like his mom Theresa, in that he was quite the avid reader and current events enthusiast.

A celebration of Jim’s life for family members and close friends, along with interment of ashes in Muenster, SK, will be held on a date sometime in May. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan, (#26-1738 Quebec Ave., Saskatoon, SK, S7K 1V9).