Bernie was born at home on the family farm in Hatfield on May 25th, 1937 to George and Bertina Lakness. He was the second youngest child in a family of nine. Bernie attended school in Cuthbret and Hatfield. He helped on the farm and began working with PFRA. Bernie married Theresa Hagel in 1960. They had six children and were both active on the farm and raising their family. Bernie was a councillor R.M. of Wreford from 1984 – 2006. He enjoyed curling and ice fishing with neighbours, visiting with friends and family over coffee and especially playing cards.
Bernie was predeceased by his parents, George and Bertina; three sisters, Gladys, Alida and Dagmar (in infancy); two sisters-in-law; his father-in-law and mother-in-law. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Theresa; six children Bertha (Russel), Hilda (Kevin), Alan (Roseanne), Keith (Brenda), Lisa (Donald) and Pauline (Rob); eighteen grandchildren Anthony, Melissa, TyLynn, Brent, Amy, Paul, Dalton, Sabrina, Josie, Clay, Ashlynn, Brice, Dustin, Micheal, Deidra, Kimberly, Tyler, and Justin; three great-grandchildren Bethany, Savannaha and Connor; one brother Carl; four sisters Borgny, Mildred, Kathy and LaVerne; numerous nieces and nephews, many cousins, friends and neighbours