Bernard 'Bernie' A Beyer, 59

Bernard “Bernie” A. Beyer passed away on a beautiful Friday morning, April 27, 2018. at the age of 59.

He was born April 15 1959, to Theresa “Terry” and William “Bill” Beyer Sr. in Cass City, Michigan. At the age of 1, Bernie moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, with his entire family to start up the Pend Oreille Cheese Company in 1960. As a young boy, he enjoyed adventures with his sisters on the mean streets of Sandpoint. His business sense started when he would sell the perch he had caught to customers at his mother’s bar, The City Club, for 50 cents a piece.

Being the “baby” of the family he was natural born performer. Bernie started singing for anyone who would listen at a very young age. His love for playing his guitar and singing carried on throughout his life. His last public performance was at a Toys for Tots benefit; it was truly memorable. A jam session with many of his “Critter” friends and family last Christmas will not be forgotten.

Bernie graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1977. He was involved in football, basketball, band and American Legion baseball. Bernie loved skiing, fishing and smoking his bluebacks. His secret recipe became legendary and he loved sharing the fish with his friends.

Bernie was hired by the Burlington Northern Railroad in 1978. The job required time away from home which meant time away from his baby girl. He felt his time spent with Albert Schenck and Chris Therien on the railroad taught him the work ethic he was so proud of. He mentioned many times how appreciative he was of these men who influenced him. When Bernie was offered a chance to take a job with Bill Jones Distributing, the thought of being home for his daughter was the driving force in the decision to become a “beer man” with the company. In 1987 under the guidance of Leon Anderson and Jack McDon-ald, he began his 30-year career. He said that Leon and Jack taught him everything about the beer business and how to treat customers. Retirement may have come too soon but he appreciated all that the Jones family did for him.

Bernie is survived by his daughter who was the true light of his life, Theresa Beyer and Russ Cook; his three “Twisted Sisters,” Deanna (Dick) Baber, Corrine Bond, and Patsy (Bruce) Sletager; his gal, Abbie; and their “faithful-to-the-end” dog, Harley. Bernie had numerous nieces, nephews, extended “family”, and countless lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Terry and Bill Sr.,;three brothers, Bill Jr., Jim, and Dick; and a sister, Eleanor.

At Bernie’s request there will not be a service. A “celebration of life” will certainly be held at a later date.

“Remember me with smiles and laughter, for that is how I will remember you all. If you can only remember me with tears, then don’t remember me at all” ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder

Bernie filled his 59 years with more life, love and laughter than most people get a chance to experience. His zest for life will be with us always.