Ernest Joseph Bernal

Ernest Joseph "Ernie" Bernal, of Arvada, Colorado, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 6, 2024, at the age of 89. He was born on April 13, 1935, in Boulder, Colorado, to the late Emerenciano and Eva (Sanchez) Bernal. Ernie grew up in Boulder and graduated from Boulder High School with the Class of 1955.

After high school, Ernie proudly served in the United States Navy, enlisting on June 13, 1957, and being honorably discharged on June 12, 1961. Upon returning home, Ernie began a 30-year career at Rocky Flats, starting on May 7, 1962, and retiring as a Records Management Specialist on August 31, 1992.

In 1962, Ernie met Rosalie Trujillo at a dance at the GAO. They married on November 24, 1962, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Lafayette, Colorado, in a double wedding ceremony with Ernie’s sister Eliria and her husband,Tony Ochoa. Together, Ernie and Rosalie were blessed with two sons, Ronald and Robert.

Ernie was known for his love of cooking, especially during family gatherings. The Bernal household in Boulder became a place of warmth and laughter, where Ernie’s Thanksgiving meals were a highlight, ensuring that every guest left satisfied and with a plate of leftovers to take home. His passion for gardening also stood out, as he took great pride in maintaining his beautiful yard, which was the envy of neighbors year after year. Ernie and his family enjoyed camping and frequented the campground in Walden, Colorado.

In their retirement, Ernie and Rosalie enjoyed trips "up the hill" to their favorite casino, Ameristar, where they spent many joyful hours together. Whether they won or lost, it was the time spent together that mattered most.

Ernie is survived by his two sons, Ronald of Arvada and Robert (Lacy) Bernal of Westminster; his two grandchildren, Elan and Eva; and his siblings, Rosalie (Gil) Garcia and David (Carol) Bernal. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosalie, and his siblings Lee Bernal, Florida Bernal, Theresa Chavez, Eleria Ochoa, and an infant sister, Rosetta Bernal. Ernie had a soft spot for the family pets, Buddy, Bruno and Matzi. All three preceded their master in death.

Ernie and Rosalie will be laid to rest 2pm, on January 6, 2025 at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W. Kenyon Avenue in Denver.

The Bernal family invites you to visit olingerhighland.com to share condolences and memories in honor of Ernie’s life.

Ernie will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family will remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever.