Bernel (Bernie) Mengwasser, 83

In the early morning hours of Dec. 17, 2025, Bernie left this broken world and is now in the arms of his Lord and Savior. He knew this world was not his home but a journey toward his heavenly home. “For nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” Romans 8:38. Death has been defeated, and his victory has been won. “Cancer is a bully who doesn’t play fair…but it can’t dim your spirit, and it can’t silence prayer.”

In his final days, he was surrounded by an outpouring of love. Family gathered close, sharing memories, holding his hands, reading their love letters to him, and reminding him again and again of how deeply he was cherished. He not only received love, but he continued to remind his family, “Be sure to always tell your loved ones how much you love them.” His final hours were spent at home with his three girls by his side, his precious “Louie, Cam and Reen” caring for him with devotion and love.

He was born at home on a hot summer day in August, 83 years ago, on the family farm in Rich Fountain, Missouri, to Adolph and Rita (Plassmeyer) Mengwasser. He was raised on the farm where he developed a hard work ethic that has lasted throughout his life. He attended Sacred Heart Parish and School graduating from the 8th grade, then attended Fatima High School, graduating in 1960.

He enlisted in the US Air Force in January 1961 and was stationed at San Antonio, Texas for basic training. From there he went to Amarillo, Texas for schooling. In May, he was stationed at the 716th Radar Squadron in Lakeside, Montana. He worked in Material Control, on top of Black Tail Mountain where the radar towers were located. He served in the Honor Guard for military funerals. The remainder of his 4-year commitment was served there. He achieved the rank of Airman 1st class and was honorably discharged in 1965.

Bernie met the love of his life, Linda Begg, while she was working at the local Kalispell theater, introduced by Linda’s good friend Sherry. Without a vehicle, he relied on others to get him into town or hitchhiked when needed. Once there, he would visit Linda at the theater, joking that he never had to buy a ticket. When her shift ended, he would walk her home and then make his way to the Palm Café to wait for a ride back to the base, even if that meant drinking coffee all night.

Sometimes, that ride wouldn’t come until the next morning.
They were married on January 5th, 1963, in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho, passing away just three weeks shy of celebrating their 63rd wedding anniversary. They had two daughters, Cammy, born in 1963, and Reni, born in 1968. The family resided in Kalispell where Bernie worked at Westmont Tractor, The Columbia Falls Aluminum Plant and had a side job of making pizza at Moose’s Saloon. Moose’s later became a cherished family tradition for celebrations and holiday meals.

In 1972, they moved to the St. Louis area to be closer to Bernie’s family. They spent five wonderful years there spending many weekends driving to the farm. In 1977, they returned to Kalispell where he went into the vending business. In 1982, they bought a home on the east side of Kalispell and totally renovated it for three years before finally moving in. It has been a gathering place for family and friends for the last 40 years. Later he worked for the Flathead County Road Department, retiring in 2018.

He always had a deep love for baseball and was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. In his younger years, he played softball in both St. Louis and Kalispell, even winning the City Championship as a member of the Moose’s Saloon team, in 1966. He enjoyed spending time at the cabin on Ashley Lake, a family gathering spot that has been enjoyed for many generations.

Bernie and Linda have been long time members of Trinity Lutheran Church. He was a man of deep faith and had a close personal relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He spent his early morning hours in God’s word reading his bible from beginning to end each year, for the last 23 years. In his words, “The good Lord has never let me down.” Since the time of his diagnosis, he spent numerous hours listening to hymns and southern gospel music.

He lived an ordinary life by some measures. Though he did not pursue a college education, he was wise in ways that cannot be taught. Through hard work, humility, and an unwavering devotion to his family, he lived a life that was full and rich. He measured success not by achievements or possessions, but by the blessings he held close, his loved ones, shared laughter, and the simple joys of everyday life. In these things, he was truly wealthy. He was always there, whether you were family, friend, neighbor, or a stranger. Quiet acts of service done without recognition, simply because they needed to be done. Serving his family and leaving his mark for generations and years to come.

His voice was unique and familiar, a sound that brought comfort simply by being heard. His smile came easily and often, carrying kindness and quiet reassurance. His hugs were the kind that lingered; strong, safe, and full of love, making you feel at home in his arms. His laughter, honest and contagious, filled rooms and moments alike, reminding everyone around him to slow down, enjoy the moment, and feel the joy he so freely shared. Life is not just about all the good we do and he did a lot, but about our heart and soul, relationships, connections and how he made people feel. He made everyone feel loved, seen, heard and greeted them with a smile. He was known for his playful teasing, an unforgettable part of his charm.

He was proceeded in death by his parents and his brothers, Mark and Gerald. He is survived by his devoted wife Linda, daughters Cammy Corpron and Reni (Dan) Anderson. Grandchildren, Brittany (Tyler) Burns, Kyle (Jessie) Todd, Bailey (Preston) Mota, Alecia (Alex) Creighton, Jaden (Julia) Anderson, Janaé (Garrett) Anderson and Jarrett Anderson. Great-grandchildren, Mikayla Martinez, Kendalyn, Hudson and Bellemy Burns, Sawyer, Charlie and Thomas Creighton, Lainey Mota, Nash Todd and Asher and Archie Anderson. Great-great-grandchildren Sofia and Luca Manzo.
He is also survived by siblings Stan (Joan), Frank (Fran), Marlene (Jerry), Rita (Ron), Denise and Cindy. Along with numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and their families. Including his cousin in Kalispell, Dan (Lisa) Bexten, their children, Stephanie, Skyler, Jake and their grandchildren, Landon and Alivia.

A true gem of a gentleman, the epitome of what a genuine, happy hearted family man is. He had a heart as big as Montana. Though he never fully realized the depth of the impact he made, his influence lives on in the countless lives he touched.

It is so hard to say goodbye to someone that was so easy to love. We will carry you with us in our homes, in our hearts and in the way we live our lives. Until we meet again, “Luvs ya!”
Darlington Cremation and Burial Service is caring for Bernie and his family. A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, December 27, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 400 W. California St., Kalispell, MT with a luncheon to follow. The service will be live streamed, please reach out to the family for the link.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his memory to: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project or Trinity Lutheran Church Camp.

    Bernel (Bernie) Mengwasser