1944-2025
Bernard M. Pfister Sr., 80, of Front Royal, Virginia passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
Bernard was born on September 7, 1944 in Mount Vernon, Illinois to Glen and Emma Pfister. He grew up in Carmi, Illinois where he met and married his wife of 63 years, Darlene Carty Pfister. They had 5 children, 9 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
Bernard served in the United States Army for 22 years, including combat in the Vietnam War and retired as a Sargeant First Class. Following military retirement, he continued a career of public service with the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Department for 14 years retiring as a Sargeant.
Throughout his life, he found his peace in the outdoors. His greatest joy came from hunting, fishing and camping, all of which he shared with his children and grandchildren frequently. He spent many nights at the ball field cheering them on as well, faithfully attending their baseball and softballs games. Bernard spent time as a volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America as well as the Royal Rangers through his church.
He is preceded in death by his parents Glen and Emma Pfister, and his brother, Charles Pfister.
Bernard is survived by his wife Darlene Pfister; three sons, Bernie Pfister Jr. (Rhonda), Scott Pfister (Glenda) and Duane Pfister Sr. (Rosie); two daughters, Kim Pfister and Nicole Kidwell; nine grandchildren, Brandon, Jessica, Joshua, Glen, Megan, Kristen, Duane Jr, Adrianna and Tom Jr.; fourteen great grandchildren; brother Mike Pfister and sister Maryann Glenn.
A memorial service will be held on March 31, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at LifePoint Church in Front Royal, Virginia with Pastor John Kenney officiating.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Inurnment will take place at 1:00 p.m. at Culpepper National Cemetery, with a meal to follow at LifePoint Church in Front Royal, Virginia.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bernard may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
