Bernard J. Hemmelgarn, 97, formerly of East Sixth St., Minster, died Feb. 19, 2014, at Elmwood Assisted Living, New Bremen.

He was born Jan. 16, 1917, in Cranberry Prairie, to Charles and Philomena (Goettemoeller) Hemmelgarn. He married Alvina M. Overman on June 17, 1939, at St. John Catholic Church, Maria Stein. She preceded him in death June 20, 2009.

He is survived by children, Carol (Jim) Opperman, New Bremen, Marlene (Larry) Prenger, Minster, Ronald (Diane) Hemmelgarn, Villa Ridge, Mo., Dennis "Duff" Hemmelgarn, Minster, and Paulette (Babe) Hemmelgarn, New Bremen; 16 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a grandchild; sisters, Olive Huwer, Katherine Budde, Cecelia Albers and Sr. Lelia Hemmelgarn; and brothers, Paul, Albert and Justin Hemmelgarn.

He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Minster, St. Augustine Men's Choir for over 40 years, Fraternal Order of Eagles 1391, Minster, and Minster Athletic Boosters, that named him Booster of the Year. He was a life member of the Minster Civic Association and Citizen of the Year in 1989. He volunteered in the construction of Minster Memorial Stadium, was an avid sports fan and enjoyed fishing. He retired as owner and operator of the Mobile Service Station, Minster, and as a realtor for Red Kuck Realty.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Minster, the Rev. Rick Nieberding officiating. Burial will be in St. Augustine Cemetery.

Calling is 2-8 p.m. Friday and 9-9:30 a.m. Saturday at Hogenkamp Funeral Home, Minster.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Minster Athletic Boosters and Elmwood Activity Fund.

Condolences may be made at www.hogenkampfh.com.