**UPDATED- Service Information
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bernard J. Corpe, on Sunday, February 28, 2021, at the age of 96. Bernard “Bernie” Corpe, was born January 8, 1925, in Traverse City, Michigan. He was a proud WWII Navy Veteran, serving aboard the USS New Mexico. Bernie retired as a Production Engineer with Hughes Aircraft, Inc. He was the husband of Mary H. Corpe, for 62 years, until her passing on February 13, 2010. Together Bernie and Mary raised four children.
An avid outdoorsman, Bernie loved boating, fishing, and hunting with his family, bagging a buck at the age of 94. He loved all things aviation, building and flying radio-controlled aircraft, even owning his own RC Shop.
Bernie’s life was like the perfect candle, burning twice as bright and lasting three times as long. Few have embraced life as fully or gracefully, attracting people of every stripe. He could listen as well as he could talk, be as compassionate as he was sensitive, and be as full of wonder as he was of wisdom. An eager storyteller, his tales of the good old days were mesmerizing and incredibly easy to visualize. His sense of humor, tempered with humility, was as keen as his wit. Liked and respected by all that knew him, his magnetic personality was his distinction. He could relate to anyone, anywhere, anytime. He was a fine provider and was always encouraging his children to seek their own way, to fulfill their dreams, and to find their own happiness. Although he is gone, his loving spirit remains alive for those who knew and loved him, now and forever.
He was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Gaylord.
Bernie was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, father, Frank, mother, Lena, and brother, Donald. He is survived by his four children; Bernard (wife Jean) of Gaylord, Michigan, Brenda Ormsbee (husband Dennis) of Grayling, Michigan, Bruce (wife Crystal) of Ellettsville, Indiana, and Michael (wife Jerrie) of Blairsville, Georgia. Bernie is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 1, 2021, at Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center Ave., Gaylord, MI 49735, at 12:00 p.m. with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Graveside services with V.F.W. honors will take place at 3:00 p.m. at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens, Traverse City, MI.
Please visit www.nelsonsfuneralhome.com for the link for streaming services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans through their website at https://secure.dav.org/site/Donation2?df_id=19422&mfc_pref=T&19422.donation=form1
Arrangements have been entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734.
6 comments on “Bernard J. “Bernie” Corpe”
Bernie and Jean – sorry to hear of your loss. Your dad, Bernie, reflects an integrity and honor which is in short supply during our times. He truly was part of America’s greatest generation. May he rest in Christ.
Bernie and Jean. We were so sorry to read of the passing of Bernie’s Father. We did not have the opportunity to meet him, but knew him through
your many kind and loving stories of him. Our thoughts of sympathy and prayers are with you.
Jack and Sandy Walczak
We are so very sad to hear of the loss of your dad. May all of you find comfort in the knowledge you’ll see him again. May god richly bless each one of you at this sad time.
His service was a great credit to this great nation. Thank you Bernard Corpe. 💔🇺🇸💔
I am so sad to hear that Dad Corpe has passed. He will remain in the memory of all those who loved him. I wish for all of you peace, strength and the courage to rely on each other. ♥️🌹
Papa Corpe
Your kind heart will be missed by many.
❤️ We love you ❤️
Bernie and Jean
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts of sympathy and prayers are with you and your family.
Linda and Pat