Denis Bernard

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Denis Bernard at the Portage District General Hospital on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at the age of 73 years, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife of 46 years, Aline (née Roch); his children, Marcel and daughters Gwendlynn and Bella; Richard (Denise); Mireille (Trent) and children Trenton Jr., Abigail, and Aurora; Marc (Chantal) and children Brynlee, Micah, and Landon; and his beloved grandson Justin Bernardin. Also left to mourn are his siblings, Louis Bernard, Raymond Bernard (Marcella), and Irene (Daniel) Boyse and their daughters Brianna (Ryan) and Nikki; and his brother-in-law Ronald Picton and his children Danielle (Craig), Roger (Cara), Joanne, and Ryan. Also left to mourn is Aline’s family; René (Celeste) Roch and his children Lizette (Dale) and Dominique (Shelly); Raynald (Nora) Roch and his children Philippe, Ariane (Matt); Nicole Coutts (Nish) and her children Colin and Michelle; Norbert (Darlene) Roch and their son Jaedn; as well as numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, relatives and friends.

Denis was predeceased by his parents Léon and Fernande Bernard (née Poquet); his sister Lauraine Picton; his daughter Nathalie Bernard; his grandson Alex Bernardin; his parents-in-law Albert and Lucienne Roch (née Danais) and brother-in-law Wayne Coutts.

Denis was born on March 14, 1953, at the Carman Hospital and was raised on a farm northeast of St. Claude, Manitoba. Growing up, he helped his parents and uncles with farm work. He attended local schools and later pursued a life dedicated to hard work and family. He worked at Beatrice, then started traveling daily to work at Motorcoach in Winnipeg, as a forklift operator. He loved his farm and had cattle for a long time. He did some logging and operated a sawmill with family and friends. He was a self-taught true jack of all trades and experienced various jobs but found fulfillment in supporting his loved ones. As his family grew, he left Motorcoach to drive school bus for many years, and continued operating his farm, retiring at age 66 years.

He taught his children to be strong, hardworking, and that nothing mattered more than family. Known for his quiet strength, kindness, and devotion to his family, Denis found joy in simple moments, like time on the farm and being with his children and grandchildren. He loved to play cards, dice, crib and loved history. He purchased several family history books and of different places. He was a pillar for many and will be deeply missed.

Denis will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love and light he brought into the world. Rest in peace.

A service will be held at a later date.

Donations can be made to: The Styrke Foundation for Rare Disease Research and Treatment

By check: The Styrke Foundation for Rare Disease Research and Treatment 

c/o Meghan Horne, Director

3319 Lassiter Court

SW Calgary Alberta

T3E6J8

Or by credit card

Donate – The Styrke Foundation | Rare Disease Research and Treatment

Adam’s Funeral Home of Notre Dame de Lourdes, Manitoba in care of arrangements. Phone 204-248-2201. To view the service details and leave condolences, please visit www.afh.ca