Michael Joseph Bernier

 

Michael Joseph Bernier entered into eternal rest on January 31, 2024. He was born on July 16,1951 in Les Méchin, Canada to Colette Bernier and the late Georges-Énoch Bernier. His father, Enoch, was lost at sea in 1952. In 1954 he became a U.S. citizen after his family moved to Van Nuys, California where he was raised by stepfather the late John Gilbert and mother Colette. He lived in California until 1968 when he enlisted into the U.S. Army at the age of 18. He fought for his country in the Vietnam War, and received multiple awards for heroism. He flew in the Black Hawk Helicopter as a door gunner and parachute rigger. In 1974 when honorably discharged from the U.S. Army he moved to New Orleans, Louisiana and started working as an underwater commercial welding diver. In 1984 married, Shelley Okones Bernier, living in Algiers, Louisiana and started a family. Having two children Justin Bernier (Janelle) and Chelsea Brown (Derrick). He became a nurse in 2000 and retired in 2014 working in endoscopy department at the VA hospital. Mike was a witty, laid back guy with the best stories to tell! However, reserved and liked his alone time also. He loved his family and spending time with them whenever he could. His hobby was building models ships of the boat his dad died on.  Mike is survived by his beloved mother, Colette Gilbert. Brother of Suzanne White (Tom), Patrick Gilbert (Susan), and the late Christian Bernier. Father of Justin Bernier (Janelle) and daughter Chelsea Brown (Derrick). Grandfather of Shelby, Kadyn, Beau, Amelia and Austin. Relatives and Friends of the Family are invited to attend the Memorial Visitation at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expy, Harvey, LA on Friday, February 9, 2024 from 9 AM until Service time at 11 AM. Interment private.