Lana Jean Bernard, 73, of Chatfield died Sunday, October 29, 2023, at Mayo Clinic Hospitals, Rochester Methodist Campus. She passed peacefully surrounded by the love and care of her family after a brief, but courageous, fight with cancer.
Lana was born October 7, 1950, in Lanesboro to Myron and Dolores (Wentworth) Erickson. She graduated from Chosen Valley High School in 1968. She and Clifford “Chip” Bernard were married November 30, 1968. They farmed in rural Chatfield, raising cows, pigs and laying hens. They later moved their family into town and purchased Gopher Bus, now Bernard Bus Services. Lana and Chip divorced in 2011. She worked as a CNA in restorative therapy at Chosen Valley Care Center for 30 years, retiring in March 2020. She spent recent winters in Arizona. Lana was funny and sassy, with a dry wit and sense of humor. She was a caring and inclusive individual who often stated, “I just hug em all.” She enjoyed caring for her flowers and weedless yard, being meticulous with all she did. A favorite activity was shopping thrift and antique stores. Lana enjoyed the company of her “Posse” of lifelong high school friends. Visiting neighbors on her patio was one of her favorite pastimes. Lana enjoyed Sudoku, crocheting, and casino trips. In recent years she and her good friend Jane enjoyed traveling to horse shows. Spending time with family always brought her joy. There was always laughter and constant chatter. She had a special bond with all the little children in the family – she always had the most interesting treats and games! She was extremely proud of her grandchildren and cherished time with them.
Survivors include two children, Molly (Brian) Sletten of Wabasha and Jamie (Barb) Bernard of Chatfield; daughter-in-law Lisa Bernard of Chatfield, grandchildren Kaylie (Colton), Josh, Nate (Anna), Teagan, Sadie (Sterling), Sam (Amy), Michael and Josh; a great-grandson, Sawyer; siblings Geri (Chuck) French, John, Jeff (Terri), Joe (Caryn), Julie (Tom) Keefe and Peter (Leanne); several nieces, nephews, and their families.
Lana was preceded in death by her parents Myron and Dolores, her son Michael on October 7, 2023, and by her former husband Chip.
Services for Lana will be at 11 am., Monday, November 6, 2023, at Chatfield Lutheran Church with the Reverend Paul Hauschild officiating. The visitation will be from 2-4 pm., Sunday, November 5, 2023 at the church. Hoff Funeral Service of St. Charles is assisting the family with arrangements. www.hofffuneral.com