Joseph Virgil Lee Bernard

Joseph "Virgil" Lee Bernard also known as Frere passed away on March 28, 2023 at the age of 91. He was born on January 2, 1932 in Arnaudville, Louisiana to the late Leon J. and Effie Olivier Bernard. Devoted husband of 64 wonderful years to Dolores Hymel Bernard. Loving father of Craig Bernard (Daphne), Carla B. Wagner (Thomas), Randy Bernard (Deiko) and Ryan J. Bernard. Proud grandfather of Jarrod R. Bernard (Sierra), Anne W. Mrozek (Chas), Evan M. Wagner, Jenna M. Wagner, Michael J. Bernard (Andrea) and Keiko Bernard and great-grandfather of Elliot, Samuel, Anya, Theodore, Estelle, Tyler and Amy. Brother of Camille Clark and the late Elsie Bernard. Also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Virgil proudly served his country as Corporal for 2 years in the Army, stationed in Germany. He then graduated from UL in Lafayette in 1957 with a bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Arts Education. From there, he taught Industrial Arts and Woodworking at Hahnville High School. Virgil retired as a production engineer at Union Carbide in 1987 and began repairing outboard motors and continued with his love of woodworking.

Virgil enjoyed hunting ducks with his family and friends, teaching everyone how to water ski and building fine furniture for his home and family. He also loved to swim, competing in the Senior Olympics at the early age of 70 until his late 80's, and travel with his family. Most of all, Virgil loved to spend time with his family and friends. Virgil was loved and will be dearly missed.

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Saturday, April 1, 2023 beginning at 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 234 Angus Dr, in Luling. Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 AM and interment will take place at a later date. Everyone is also invited to attend a gathering, in Virgil's memory, in the CA building at St. Anthony immediately after the service.