Robert "Bob" Leo Bernert's Obituary
Robert “Bob” Bernert
April 27, 1932 - March 15, 2024
Robert “Bob” Bernert was, as he would say, “as old as dirt” when he passed peacefully at home in the
company of his family. He was just one month shy of his 92nd birthday.
Born and raised in West Linn, Bob developed an early love for the rivers of Oregon that would last a
lifetime. He began working for his father’s business - Albert Bernert Inc - when he was a teenager, driving
tugboats up the Willamette river, and later expanding onto the Columbia and Snake rivers. The business
was renamed Bernert Barge Lines when Bob took over in 1981.
In 1952, he married Kathryn, with whom he raised five children: Sue, Steve, Karen, Lori, and Ken. Bob was
a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, known for hosting large family gatherings and pool parties.
He and Kathryn were married for 60 years until her passing in 2012.
In 2016, Bob was lucky in love again and married fellow boat-lover Ellen Starks. In Ellen he found a true
partner in adventure; together they explored the US Intercoastal Waterways, living aboard their boat and
traveling through Texas, down the Mississippi, up to New York City, and through the Great Lakes,
exploring every bend along the way.
Bob’s cheerful and positive outlook on life touched everyone he met. He was usually whistling a happy
tune, always generous, quick with a joke, and he delighted in spending time with his large family, which
now included Ellen’s sons and families.
He leaves behind his five children, beloved wife Ellen, Ellen’s two sons, 23 grandchildren, and a
practically uncountable number of great-grandchildren.
A funeral mass will be held at 11 am on March 22nd at St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church (10:30 rosary),
followed by interment at St. John's Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow in the ballroom of the
Tumwater Museum in Oregon City from 12:00 - 4:00 pm. Friends and family are invited to share stories
about Bob while drinking a Singapore Sling in his honor.
In lieu of flowers, we welcome you to make a donation in Bob’s name to your favorite charity.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert "Bob"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert "Bob"?
Share a story where Robert "Bob"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert "Bob" you’ll never forget.
How did Robert "Bob" make you smile?
