Bernard A Winter

Obituary Bernard Andrew Winter July 11, 1934 - March 22, 2016 Bernard Andrew Winter was released from his cares on March 22, 2016. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland on July 11, 1934 to Barney A. and Helen T. Winter. The family relocated to Tacoma in the 1940s. We have all heard the term "a few good men". Bernie Winter was one of them. He was known for his sense of honor, integrity, and fair play. He chose for his friends those who shared his same high values. Bernie excelled in whatever endeavors he chose, be it skiing, sailing, golfing, or building a garden house, raised beds or other hardscapes for his wife Karel's garden. Most of all he enjoyed riding his motorcycle and continued to ride into his 80th year. Most notably was the bond he shared with his riding buddies and his loyalty to them. Bernie was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Puget Sound Sailing/Cruising Club, and a lifetime member of the Harley Owners Group. He was a 1952 graduate of Bellarmine High School. He enjoyed the adventurous time he served with the U.S. Coast Guard aboard the Swiftsure Light Ship. He attended the University of Puget Sound with a major in business and retired from the Internal Revenue with 30 years of commendable service. One of Bernie's good friends recently said, "Bernie was a kind and gentle man. His passing leaves a terrible void for those who were close to him." Bernie is survived by his devoted wife Karel; sons, Bradley of Santa Rosa, Stephen (Irene) of Las Vegas; two grandsons, Michael and Christopher; daughter, Pamela of Seattle; and sister, Elaine Winter of Tacoma. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Nicholas Catholic Church (3510 Rosedale St NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335) on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at 11:00am with a reception to follow in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, any donations may be made to the Institute of Responsible Technology. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.