Violet Freda Bernard

Violet Freda Bernard, age 99, passed away to her heavenly home on October 11, 2025, in Salinas, California.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Bernard; her parents, Helen (Jiesta) and Alfred Vierra Sr.; her brother, Alfred Vierra Jr.; and her cherished grandson, Bryan DaSilva.
She is survived by her loving daughters Helen Bernard and Yvonne (Bernard) DaSilva, and son-in-law Daniel DaSilva; her granddaughter Nadine DaSilva; granddaughter-in-law Lillian (Fuerte) DaSilva; and great-grandchildren Brianna Jimenez-DaSilva and Adam Jimenez, Melina DaSilva, Jayson DaSilva, and Joseph DaSilva. Violet was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren Adeline, LillyRose, Eve, Julius, and Theodore
Violet was born on July 16, 1926, in Oakland, California. Her parents, both born in Hawaii, returned to the islands during her early childhood, where Violet developed a lifelong love of the hula and Hawaiian culture. At age twelve, her family returned to the mainland and settled in Gonzales, California, where she later met the love of her life, Robert. They married in 1946 and together raised two daughters.
Violet dedicated her career to teaching at Madonna del Sasso School, where she was affectionately known by her students as "Mrs. B." She touched countless young lives with her humor, faith, and passion for learning.
In her later years, Violet remained deeply devoted to her faith and community. She was an active member of Madonna del Sasso Church and a proud member of the Young Ladies Institute (YLI). She found joy in giving back-especially supporting seminarians in their journey toward the priesthood - who loving called her Grandma.
Violet's life was a testament to love, laughter, and service. Her heart of gold and spirited sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship that will continue to inspire generations to come.
She was loved by many-and will be deeply missed.
Services
Viewing: Tuesday, October 21, 2025
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM, followed by the Rosary at 6:00 PM
Struve & LaPorte Mortuary
41 W. San Luis Street, Salinas, CA
Funeral Mass: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
10:00 AM
Madonna del Sasso Parish
320 E. Laurel Drive, Salinas, CA
Burial: Immediately following Mass at
Queen of Heaven Cemetery
Reception: Following burial at
Knights of Columbus Hall
270 Rianda Street, Salinas, CA