Bernard Coleman

Bernard Lawrence Coleman Jr. also lovingly known by family and friends as “Bernie”, of Old Mines, Missouri, departed this life on early Sunday morning, February 25, 2024 at Ashbrook Assisted Living in Farmington at the age of 78. Bernie was born in Potosi on July 30, 1945 to Bernard Coleman and Della (Thebeau) Coleman.

Those who remain to treasure his memory include his three children: Shannon Merx (husband, Steve), Kevin Bouse (wife, Kim), and Scotty Waters (wife, Jeanne); his grandchildren: Emily Merx and Fiancé, Justin Dennis, Kaylee Charboneau and Andrew Graves, Chelsea Charboneau, Cody Coleman and Fiancé, Serena, Cory Coleman and Dakota, Amanda Jones, Dillon Bouse (wife, Houston); great grandchildren: Parker and Payson Dennis, Braxton Graves, Axel Coleman, Dylan Walezak, Sadie Bouse, Callie Bouse, Nolan Bouse, Breylene, Hudson, Bentley, and Camry Coleman. Bernie also leaves behind nieces, nephews and extended family.

In addition to his father and mother, Bernie was preceded in death by his wife, Connie Coleman; son, Russell "Rusty" Coleman; sister, Judy Ann Shepard; and many other dear relatives.

Bernie proudly served in the United States Army from October 4, 1965 to October 3, 1967 during Vietnam. He was patriotic and loved his country. Bernie was a member of the Potosi VFW Post 6996.

Bernie had a servant’s heart. He loved caring for and helping others. In his early years, Bernie worked in the nursing home industry as a Certified Nurses Aid. He deeply enjoyed the relationships that were made with the residents during that time. Bernie was one to always put the needs of others above his own. Bernie happily volunteered at Potosi Manor Nursing Home for several years, serving coffee every morning and visiting with the residents.

On July 18, 1992, Bernie was united in Holy Matrimony to Connie Cain and they shared nearly 20 years of life and love together. Bernie adored his wife and that was evident in the way he cared for her until her passing on January 19, 2012. Bernie and Connie enjoyed the memories made between each other and their children. Bernie loved taking drives with Connie wherever the road led them. As long as they had a Coke and chips, they were set for the journey. Even after Connie passed, Bernie still enjoyed taking drives and stopping to visit with family and friends.

Bernie had a deep faith that sustained him throughout his life. He loved the Lord. He was a parishnor of St. Joachim Catholic Church.

Bernie led a simple life, yet he touched so many lives. His legacy of compassion, servitude, and love will forever be held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 5 to 8 pm at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume on Friday, March 1, 2024 from 11 am until the time of his Funeral Service at 1 pm, held in the DeClue Chapel. Fr. Tony Dattilo will be officiating. Interment and final prayers will follow at New Diggins Cemetery, Mineral Point, MO. Bernie will receive full military honors presented by the United States Army as well as VFW Post 6996.

Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.