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BORN
1949
DIED
2025
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Gary Bernard Obituary
November 2, 1949 – July 13, 2025
Indianapolis – It is with sadness in our hearts that we grieve the loss of our brother, Gary Bernard. Gary died on July 13, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, having lived there for over 32 years with his loving wife, Susan Duche-Bernard, who predeceased him in December 2024.
Gary was born in Bakersfield, California on November 2, 1949 to Harry M. and Gertrude Bernard. He attended Bakersfield schools, including a brief stint at Bakersfield Junior College, before marrying and moving to Los Angeles with his first wife, Kathy.
As a young teen he was the lead drummer in a garage band, The Avengers, and spent many years perfecting his ability with those drumsticks. In later years his band fronted for many famous artists including Sonny and Cher, and Ted Nugent, among others. He also perfected his bowling skills, taking after our father and recorded several perfect games of 300, or so the stories go.
Gary held several jobs throughout his working life including a period at the Indiana Correctional facility working in the mailroom, inspecting the prisoners mail. He regaled me with many stories of what he would find in those packages. He eventually retired from work to care for both himself as well as Sue, as they both had cancer.
Our siblings and spouses were fortunate to spend a week with Gary and Sue last summer, 2024, sharing many memories of our youth. It is those memories that will sustain us, keeping him and Sue close to our hearts and forever present in our lives.
Gary's accomplishments during his life were expressed through his music, his bowling and his dedication to family, but perhaps his greatest accomplishment comes with his death. In honor of our mother, who was blind the last five years of her life, Gary's corneas will give light and sight to someone in need.
He leaves behind two sisters, Dorothy McKay Vaughan (David) of Bakersfield, Rosalie Strong (David) of Simi Valley and brother Rick (Bonnie) of Lake Shastina, in addition to several nieces, nephews and cousins, and their special friend, Carol Farzetta.
He was our little baby brother who has left us way too soon but will now be joined with his wife Sue. And, at last, you will be back in California kiddo!
He has been entrusted to Stevens Mortuary, Indianapolis, Indiana.
A celebration of Gary's life will be held later in the year.
www.bakersfield.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Bernard
Sponsored by Stevens Mortuary.
Rhonda Morris-Iriart
July 25, 2025
I remember Gary with that very long shaggy hair when he was a drummer. Nice guy. Funny. Sad to hear of his passing but his obituary reads he had a wonderful life. Now he is reunited with his loving wife & they sit with Jesus & others they loved.
Jason L Likens
July 24, 2025
He was my best friend we talk almost everyday and I check on him I never got to have a chance to say goodbye we bowl together and the last time I heard of him was may 24 2025 he said he was back in the hospital
Robert W. Cervantes
July 24, 2025
To Rick and Gary´s Family,
To read Gary´s obituary was quite a shock, having just seen Rick nearly 3 months ago at a class reunion. I will always remember Gary as the best young rock drummer in town 60 years ago. Besides his enormous talent, I also remember his gentlemanly demeanor and gentle spirit. May the memories of Gary´s love of life help sustain his family through this time of heavy loss. Rest in Peace, Gary.
Trudie Conroy Blake
July 23, 2025
Gary and my husband Gerry Blake played in bands together for years. He will always be in my heart.
Michele (aka Shelly Boyd
July 23, 2025
Gary and I went to school together went to many dances where his band played. He was my bff and believed in me I'll forever cherish your kindred spirit. Now your jamn on the BIG STAGE in HEAVEN with your buddies love, later Shelly Boyd 67' BHS
Jimmy Gonzakes
July 23, 2025
I read this today with great sadness. I worked with him in a couple of bands in the 70s. The most fun was working with him at The Matchmaker along with the Gaines brothers. Rest in Peace "Firesticks" Bernard. You were one of a kind. God bless you and your beautiful bride.
John Sarad
July 23, 2025
Gary, you little rascal! Always smiling and sure of things. Last saw you on Facebook but didn't realize you were in Indiana too. Tom toms in heaven will wake things up. See you soon.
Ginny
July 23, 2025
I remember Gary well. I lived just down the street as well as attended BHS. Gary was a exceptional drummer. I recall dancing the night away at Beale Park with all those who came upon practice sessions. Those were the days. I am saddened to to read of Gary's passing. My condolences to his family.
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