Bernard Ojeda Sr

Bernard "Bernie" Ojeda Sr., a.k.a. Bernie / Papa / Pops / Dad of Grand Terrace, California was born on June 13th, 1950, in Bakersfield, California. He passed away on July 30th, 2025, in Fontana, California. His family and friends are deeply saddened by their loss.
Bernie is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Joanne Thoring-Ojeda, and his children: Bernard Ojeda Jr. (Michelle), Bernadine "Dede" DeSevilla (Angel), Bernadette Gilbey, and Eino Johnson Jr. (Lisa). He will be forever loved and remembered by his eight grandchildren-Rebecca, Noah, and Helena Ojeda; Andrew "Andy," Margaret "Maggie," and Mary DeSevilla; Arielle Johnson (Jeorge Mirabella); and Noah Johnson-as well as his great-granddaughter, Gabrielle "GiGi" Mirabella. He is also survived by his brothers, Danny and Luis (Norma) Hernandez; his sister, Elsie Garza, along with her children, John Anthony, Melissa, and Benjamin; and by the children of his late sister Sylvia: Maribel, Arleen, Rachel, and Marianna.
Bernie's life was defined by his unwavering devotion to others. A natural peacekeeper, he carried within him gentleness and strength, always putting the wellbeing of others before his own. His legacy is one of service, courage, and deep, abiding love.
For 27 years, Bernie proudly served in the United States Army, with his final year as Sergeant. He enlisted in the army, to demonstrate his loyalty and belief in our country. During the Vietnam War, he was a medic with a Dustoff/Medevac unit, flying into active combat zones aboard Huey helicopters to rescue wounded soldiers and civilians. These missions, carried out under constant danger, saved countless lives. Later, he trained troops across the globe, ensuring that others were prepared to protect and serve with the same integrity he embodied. He was grounded in his desire to promote a world that is supportive, kind and honorable.
Bernie's military service reflected the very qualities of courage, sacrifice, patriotism, citizenship, integrity and commitment. In September 2024, the House of Representatives, under President Joseph R. Biden, passed Senate Bill 2825/HR1015 recognizing the nearly 3,000 Dustoff/Medevac aircrew members of the Vietnam War for their heroism. Bernie was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor in recognition of his valor and will accept the award posthumously-a tribute that echoed the bravery he lived every day.
Bernie's commitment to protecting and guiding others extended far beyond the military. As a Deputy Sheriff, he went beyond the call of duty, coaching delinquent youth, advising them to make wiser choices. He believed kindness and wisdom were inseparable-that a wise person must be kind, and a kind person wise. In Galatians 5:22, wisdom is seen as guarding the believer to live in accordance with the Spirit leading their life, through which Bernie led with love, peace, kindness, gentleness, and goodness-the fruits of the Spirit.
As a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Bernie made everyone feel safe, understood, and cherished. He never judged, never compared, and always encouraged. He celebrated victories, offered comfort in hardship, and gave counsel that was both thoughtful and tender. He was quick to forgive, selfless in his care, and generous with his time and resources.
As a dad, he was devoted to his children, supporting them in every way he could. He was present at school activities, served as a school site council parent member, and joined in fundraising efforts. He often worked two or three shifts at a time to ensure his children could participate in school trips and activities, giving his heart, soul, and sweat to provide them with the best experiences possible.
As the years passed, Bernie became "Papa"-the kind of grandfather every child dreams of. He was a reliable babysitter and an adventurer at heart, taking his grandchildren to "see the world through Papa's eyes." Together they enjoyed sports games, trips to the park, donut shop outings, feeding the ducks at the VA, Friday nights with the 66ers, and cozy overnights with Papa and JoJo. Saturday mornings often began with Papa's famous pancakes and eggs (or McDonald's, depending on the day), always served with love.
Bernie had a gift for laughter, often teasing with a quick joke or sharing one of his many "fun facts." To his grandchildren, he was not just a playmate and storyteller but also an adventurer who turned simple outings into treasured lifetime memories. He loved each of his children and grandchildren deeply, celebrating their individuality and taking pride in who they were. He was endlessly proud of his family and built connections rooted in love, respect, and joy.
Gentle in heart and soft in words, Bernie carried a pure spirit. He respected the dignity of every person he met, offered protection and comfort freely, and never hesitated to help. His life was a testament to selflessness, compassion, and love-a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him.