Click here to view the Video Tribute for Bernie
Bernard James Wateland was born October 4, 1945, near Colfax, ND, to Archie and Faye (Hazemann) Wateland. The family moved to Fargo, ND, when Bernie was very young.
Bernie graduated from Fargo Central High School in 1964, entered the US Army in November of 1965, and served in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in September of 1968, and moved to Moorhead, MN, at that time.
Bernie was united in marriage to Diane Nyquist in 1975, and they made their home in Moorhead. Bernie worked for Bob's Transfer, Moorhead, and then the Fargo American Legion. He retired in September of 2000, due to health concerns.
Bernie died peacefully, in the presence of his family, on Monday, December 14, 2009, at MeritCare Hospital, Fargo, at sixty-four years of age.
Bernie's grandchildren were the love of his life and he treasured spending as much time with them as possible. He enjoyed nature and especially bird watching and fishing. Bernie also enjoyed following the sport of drag racing.
Bernie is survived by his wife, Diane; four sons, Scott Wateland, Steven Wateland, Wes (Jenny) Wateland and Jason (Meghan) Wateland; one daughter, Kristen (Chris) Lord; eight grandchildren, Gunner, Kimberley, Tielur, Gavin, Matthew, Kailee, Brandon and Ma
In addition his parents, Bernie was preceded in death by three brothers, Wayne, Roger and Robert.
Diane and family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the many individuals that cared for Bernie during his illness; particularly Dr. Warren Albrecht, the ICU staff on Three East at MeritCare, and his physical therapists at SouthPointe, Scott and
The Memorial Service for Bernie will be Saturday, December 19, 2009, at 1 PM, in Dilworth (MN) Lutheran Church.