BANGOR – “Louie” Bernard, died Oct. 4, 2006, after a tragic accident. He had lived much of his life as a “free spirit” and seemed to make his way despite harsh circumstances. He demonstrated resiliency and tenacity of the human spirit. He is remembered for being a gentle and generous person. Though Louie could be a handful at times, he enjoyed life. Louie was quick to share a joke and had an infectious smile. He had a friendly openness that invited a connection and friendship with others and would never carry a grudge. Though he was far from his tribal homelands, he was proud to be Mi’kmaq. He was predeceased by his parents, Marie Catherine (Paul) Bernard and Charles Bernard; his foster parents, Wilbur and Madeline Gardiner. He is survived by his brothers, Douglas Bernard of Island Falls, Anthony Mitchell and Melvin Bernard of Lenox Island, Prince Edward Island and Emmett Bernard of Massachusetts; his sister, Wanda Thurston and husband, Milton Thurston of Milton, N.H.; niece, Stephanie McDonald; nephew, Robert Anthony McDonald; great-niece, Jasmine Lee Colby. Special friends include Gloria and Owen Botting, the Carr Family of Aroostook County and Allen Sockabasin of Peter Dana Point. His family wishes to thank the many organizations and individuals who aided Louie, especially Wabanaki Mental Health Association, Bangor Police Department, Acadia Recovery Community Shelter, the Eastern Maine Medical Center emergency room and other Eastern Maine Medical Center staff. A memorial gathering will be held 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 540 Essex St., Bangor. Food and financial donations are being accepted at Wabanaki Mental Health Association, to help with burial costs, care of Sharon Tomah, 33 State St., Bangor, ME 04401. Arrangements by Memorial Alternatives, 205 Center St., Bangor.
LOUIS BERNARD
