Bernard Charles Huger

Huger, Bernard Charles

Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, died on Sunday July 18, 2021, at age 76, surrounded by his family.

Bernie, as he was known by those closest to him, was born in St. Louis, Missouri and grew up on his family's farm in St. Albans, with his siblings: Lucie Huger Reis (deceased) (Carl, deceased), Gregory (Cynthia), Raymond (Beth), Catherine von Furstenberg Dussmann (Peter, deceased), Mary Huger Noone (Bob) and Cynthian. Life in the country presented a constant series of adventures. He developed skills as a horseman, hunter and fisherman, as well as a deep appreciation for nature and a love of working outdoors, all of which would last his entire life.

Bernie made the long drive in to attend grade school at Barat Hall and then high school at St. Louis Priory School, where he was among the first graduating classes. After high school, he attended Georgetown University, where he received both his Bachelor's Degree and Juris Doctorate. There he became a member of the sailing team and an avid racer. He was sailing on his catamaran with his grandchildren just last week in Florida.

While at Georgetown, he met the love of his life, Elizabeth Huger (nee Kivlan). He asked her to dance one night, and after a courtship under the cherry blossoms they married in Washington, DC in 1968, and had a loving marriage of nearly 53 years. Together, Bernie and Lizzy had three children: Anna (Paul Sumner), Lucie (Justin Nangle) and Bernard (Caroline). From Europe to Africa to Asia, Bernie and Lizzy loved travelling the world together.

After law school, Bernie joined his father's law firm in St. Louis, and then merged his firm into Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale PC. Over his more than 50 year career, Bernie primarily represented Catholic and non-profit organizations throughout the region, across the country and internationally. Bernie had a love of the law and a love of the Church. He was known by his clients for his excellent advice, creativity and thoughtfulness. He was an expert in his field. For the last 20 years, he took great joy in working alongside his daughter Lucie, also an attorney, who continues his work.

As with all of his passions, Bernie took gardening to a new level. He had an award winning flower garden at home and steadily expanded his garden at the farm to supply at first family, then friends and eventually even local restaurants.

In recent years, Bernie was a loving and devoted grandfather to his grandchildren: Justin, Bernard, George, Edward, John and Kathryn. Whether it was picking tomatoes in the garden, whisking them away for an early morning doughnut run at the beach or simply sitting by the fire with them at the farm, he savored each and every minute with them.

Bernie left us after a magical week at the beach with his entire family. The vacation ended in typical fashion, with him preparing an incredible feast for all of us, where laughter and love were abundant.

Services: Services will be held on Friday the 23rd at the St. Louis Abbey Church at 500 N. Mason Rd, 63141. There will be visitation at 8:30 a.m. and the funeral will be held at 10 a.m. (same location for both).