“His story lives on in the family he loved, the work he built, and the memories we carry forward.
Life story
Ralph F. “Midge” Bernard Jr. was born on June 24, 1957, in Granville, New York, to Ralph F. Bernard and Margaret “Peg” Priest Bernard. A lifelong Granville man, Midge was known for his competitive spirit, his work ethic, and the pride he took in his family.
In high school, he stood out as an athlete, especially in track, field, and football. That love of sports stayed with him throughout his life, not just as a competitor, but as a dad who showed up. He made time to coach the teams his children were part of, bringing the same energy, drive, and heart that people remembered from his own playing days.
Midge was also a skilled master electrician and carpenter. He worked for several years at Telescope Casual Furniture before starting Bernard Builders, where he used his hands, skill, and determination to build a life and reputation through hard work.
More than anything, Midge was a loving dad. He was strong-willed, competitive, capable, and present in the ways that mattered. His story lives on through his children, his family, the work he left behind, and the memories people continue to share.
Words can not express the love we have held onto all of these years since he has been gone , His voice rings in our heads daily , the drive to love family, make memories , laugh , and joke and always have a good time still live on in all of us . His adventurous spirit is seen in his grandchildren , and the days bring Midge moments that bring us all to rib him to ease the heartache. Our goal is to keep his memory alive forever until we meet again .
