I just recently learned of this loss of such a great man. Bernie was almost felt like a second father to me, after spending countless hours in fairs, summer camps, youth development trips, meetings, or leadership events. I'll never forget his love for dance. At the awkward (and many) 4-H dances, whenever I felt shy and insecure I knew I could reach for his hand and he'd take me twirling across the dance floor. He had the kindest heart for kids and was such a wonderful teacher, mentor and leader in my life. His laughter and patience for kids are vivid in my memory. He will live on in my heart with fondest memories. 

All our love to your family. What a wonderful man, teacher, mentor, friend and leader. He is a beacon of kindness and patience. -Shawna Barr

Bernie was always extremely kind and helpful to those of us in 4h. I have many great memories of him at 4h camp both as a camper and later when I became a counselor. He was always willing to teach or encourage any of us to do better and be a better person. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Thank you for everything Berndog. As all us kids knew him. 

I enjoyed seeing Bernie driving his mules on Siloam Rd. I will miss that .R.I.P.

Bernie will be missed.  He was a major part and an important part of my daughters 4-H years.  He was a fantastic leader and a friend to all.  My sympathy to the family.

Dear Bernie,
You are our ever willing volunteer helping to put up snow fencing along Phantom Road in the meadow  keeping it passable in the winters of Westcliffe, CO. As your year round, up the hill, neighbors, we helped each other out. We will miss your smiling face and willing heart. We surround Jackie and the family with our love.
Jan and Pam

To the Elliot Family,
A few memories of Bernie.

Bernie took me to my first Livestock judging contest in Gunnison. Bernie was new to 4H and I was in my second year of 4H. We were in Bernie’s gold mustang, Charlie Hobson was in the passenger seat as I remember. We had packed our fishing rods to do a bit of fishing before the competition. I was 10 at the time.  Bernie was also my girls 4H leader and was instrumental in my wife going to work for 4H as an Agent. 

We went with Bernie to Washington D.C and New York City in 1998, Bernie did not like NYC, he tried with all his might to talk the kids out of going there and to choose Virginia beach instead, the kids still picked NYC. He was a good sport, he showed us all how to walk in a group of Japanese tourists with our elbows out and moving from left to right, so as to get through the crowd. 

.While in NYC Bernie and my wife and I went on a carriage ride around Central Park and enjoyed a nice Italian meal at a great restaurant. I asked him how he knew about the restaurant he said “ if I’m forced to be on these trips in NYC I’m gonna eat good!” 
I could go on. I just want you to know he will be missed and my family and I have many fond memories that he is a part of. If a person can leave a legacy as great as Bernie has, I believe it was a life lived well. 
We are praying for you Jackie and family,
The John Fisher family


Dear Elliott Family,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this message to you.  
Where do I begin...Bernie was a wonderful leader, mentor, friend and man.  I have so many beautiful memories, it is hard to pick one or two to share.   His smile and gentle nature inspired young and old alike.  Bernie and my beloved Aunt Dee were a pair!  4-H camp, trips, projects, etc. were always filled with love and support.  Heaven has some great leaders!
Derick, I will always cherish the memory of our ski trip to Taos. Your father's kindness and generosity was always deeply appreciated.
Bernie was loved by many, admired by all and will be remembered forever.
I pray God will grant you comfort during this most difficult time.
With Much Love and Respect,
Lisa Vaccaro-Dorsey and Family


My my sincere condolences to your family for your loss.  I have such fond memories of Bernie and all he did for us as kids; what an outstanding person.  He was always so happy and willing to help.  May God give you the comfort you need at this very difficult time.

I don’t know what I would have done without Bernie when I taught Sunday School at Grandview. He always had great ideas and was soooo helpful.  He helped me with the Great Pumpkin Chase and the kids loved him. I will miss his smiling face and kind words. I am so sorry for your loss. Heaven has received a great man. 

Bernie was a great mentor to many of us, many years ago.  I remember sitting on the porch with him while he told me that my goals were for lack of a better term, "Short Sited", and reflecting on that, I re-examined where I was headed.  I only say this, because I am positive that he had that same talk with a bunch of 4H kids and had a very positive impact on their lives.  God Speed to a Man who gave so much to so many.


I'm so glad to have gotten to meet Bernie. A kind man, he and Jackie were a wonderful pair. Thank you Lord for Bernie.

Having had the pleasure of getting to know Derick, his father must have been a great man (and mother is a great woman).  Although I didn't have the honor of meeting Bernie, what Derick shared about him spoke volumes about his character and values.  My family's thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Our kids learned to ski at Conquistador with Bernie.  He taught all 4Hers Life Skills while having fun.  I loved my 2 Washington trips as a chaperone.  Bernie was a wonderful friend.  So many fond memories. 

Bernie provided outstanding leadership for many 4-H kids, including ours.  He will be missed.  

OBITUARY

Claude Bernard Elliott

22 November, 1940 – 29 March, 2018

Imperial Memorial Gardens Funeral, Cremation & Cemetery

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services