Bernard Neal Stanley

He was born in Ilion, NY on February 19, 1939, the son of Gertrude Weakley Briggs and Jerome Stanley, and step father Galen Briggs. He graduated from Ilion High School and went on to attend SUNY Cobleskill where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in mechanical and electrical engineering.

On May 26, 1986, Bernard married Joan Dibble Montgomery.

He worked for many years at Bruce Halls in Richfield Springs. After leaving there, he then worked for Reinhardt Home Heating in Oneonta, retiring after 35 years with them. Joan and Bernard also owned and operated Nick’s Diner for many years in Oneonta.

For many years, Bernard was a member of the Richfield Springs Fire Department, EMT, and held the position of Captain of the First Aid Squad.

Bernard enjoyed spending time in the Adirondack Mountains and boating in his younger years. He also enjoyed gardening and being outside. He was very handy and spent a lot of time rebuilding part of the family house. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Bernard is survived by his loving wife, Joan of Otego; his children, Vicki Fassett and her husband Kevin, Melissa Anderson and her husband Frank, Kristi Swatting and her husband Tom, Carrie Stanley and her fiancé Omar, and Christine Martin and her husband Brad; 15 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; his brother, John Stanley and his wife Janette; his sister Bernice Winchip and her husband Richard Balser; and his sister, Gladys Culver; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Bruce Stanley.

At Bernard’s request, he was cremated.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2016 at 2 pm at the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main St, Oneonta, with Rev. Stephen Fournier officiating. Burial will take place in Glenwood Cemetery, Oneonta. A reception will follow at the family home in Otego.

In lieu of flowers, contributions is Bernard’s memory are asked to be made to the Otego Fire Department, 5 River St, Otego, NY 13825.

To light a candle or send an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home of Oneonta.