Bernard (Bernie) James Stanaway Jr.

Bernie will be forever missed by the love of his life, Jennifer (Barr) Stanaway. Their love story started in high school. After going separate ways, they got back together in 1999 and had been inseparable ever since. Bernie was a devoted, loving, and involved father to Chelsea (Dakota) Rooks, Cody (Hannah Schwake) Hein, Destiny (Cole Lassen) Stanaway, and Jack Stanaway. In 2019, Bernie was excited to welcome his nap buddy, grandson Thomas Rooks.

Bernie is survived by his stepmother; Evelyn Stanaway, in-laws; Andy and Linda Barr, brother-in-law; Todd (Ronda) Barr, brothers; Joseph Healy and John Negilski, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, as well as, many friends who were considered family.

He was preceded in death by his father; Bernard Stanaway Sr, his mother; Carol (Cowling) McKay, and stepfather; Gary McKay.

He attended both Negaunee and Westwood High Schools. Upon graduating in 1992 from Westwood, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps (1992-1996). In 2004, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a Water/Wastewater Conservation minor from NMU. He was briefly employed by TriMedia Consultants prior to working for the City of Marquette. In 2016, he medically retired from the City of Marquette Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Bernie was a member of the AMVETS Post 122, American Legion Post 44, DAV Marquette Co No 22, Paralyzed Veterans of America and the VFW Post 3165. Bernie held most positions throughout his service to these organizations, not only at the local level, but in District levels as well.

As a Veteran, he never sought recognition, but wanted to give back to fellow Veterans. He was recognized in 2019 as the UP Veteran of the Year.

He was a member of St. Louis the King Church (recently attended Sun City West Christian Church), Teal Lake Masonic Lodge #202, Marquette Chapter of Royal Arch Masons and Lake Superior Commandry #30.

During the last 10 years, Bernie was a fully trained adult volunteer with Boy Scouts of America. He attended Wood Badge c1-635-18 as a participant and c1-635-19 as a troop guide on staff. His totem was a Beaver. He held many hats – Scout Leader, Pack Commissioner, Committee Member, but the proudest hat he wore was Eagle Scout Dad! He had an enormous impact in the Hiawatha District for Bay Lakes Council.

Bernie was one in a million – a man of many talents, giver of time, and a faithful servant to everyone. A July Memorial will be held in Negaunee, MI.