Bernard “Bernie” Dean Navratil, 87, of Crete, was born February 16, 1935, on a farm west of Wilber, NE to Louis & Anna (Chmelir) Navratil. Bernie passed away September 16, 2022, in Lincoln, NE. He attended District 3 Saline County & Crete High School graduating in 1953. While he was still in high school, Bernie enlisted in the Nebraska Air National Guard, serving 34+ years, working as an airplane mechanic & then personnel management specialist, achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant.
Bernie met the love of his life, Mary Beth Cogswell of Friend, NE, in high school at a district band competition. The two reconnected at Pla Mor Ballroom in 1956 and were united in marriage on June 30, 1957 at the Congregational Church in Friend. To this union 2 children were born, Brenda Kay & Boyd L. Navratil.
When his health permitted, he took great pride in his yard & vehicles. He was also an avid Husker fan attending many games in person & cheering loudly at home. Bernie enjoyed loading up his motorhome with many friends & heading out-of-state for Husker football games. Another passion was following the Kansas City Royals & Chiefs & attending many of his grandchildren’s activities through their school years into college. He also enjoyed playing on 8-ball pool teams, cards & bowling. Following his retirement from the military, he spent many hours playing golf. He & Beth spent 20 years as Winter Texans enjoying many park activities. They also took many cruises, traveled much of the U.S. as well as Europe, Australia, New Zealand & Iceland.
Bernie was a life-time member of the United Church of Christ, 1st Congregational in Crete holding several positions within the church. He was also a permanent member of the Hallam American Legion Post #294 for 40+ years serving as Department Adjutant for the State Commander, Post Commander, Post Adjutant & many other committees receiving the American Legion District 12 Citizenship Award. Other organizations Bernie was involved with included: 40 & 8 Voiture Locale #103, Lions Club International & FOE Eagles.
Survivors include his wife, Mary “Beth” of 65 years, daughter Brenda (Rod) Frahm of Glenwood, IA, son Boyd (Sanda) Navratil of Lincoln, NE, grandchildren Alaia (Cameron) Holmes & Seth (Julia) Navratil, all of Lincoln, two great-grandchildren, Zoe Holmes & Colter Navratil, sister Ana Lou (Larry) Roth of Omaha, NE, sister-in-law Darlene Navratil of Lincoln, NE, brother-in-law Charles Cogswell of Friend, NE, and sister-in-law Becky Cogswell of Florence, KY. Bernie is proceeded in death by his parents, brother Marvin Navratil, brother & sister-in-law Dennis & Donna Navratil, parents-in-law Lester & Mary Cogswell, brother-in-law Donald Cogswell, sister-in-law Gwenda Cogswell, six nephews & other family members.
Visitation will be Thursday, September 22, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and one hour before services Friday at United Church of Christ, 1st Congregational, 440 East 12th Street, Crete. Funeral Services will be 9:30 a.m., Friday, September 23, 2022 at the church. Graveside Services with military honors will be 1:00 p.m. Friday at Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Road, Omaha. Memorials in care of Hallam American Legion Post #294 or United Church of Christ, 1st Congregational. Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com. Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln.
Bernie was always a lot of fun. Wayne and Bernie played pool together for many years. Bernie was always quick to greet everyone with a smile and always enjoyed a good laugh with everyone. He often talked of his family. He was truly a family man.
Beth and family, Rick and I very sorry to hear about Bernie’s passing. I remember lots of Husker football game day parties, camping all over Ne. Watching the airplanes fly over Pawnee lake on Memorial Day when we were all out camping and so many more great memories with your family. Hugs to you all Rick & Kim
I had the pleasure to work with Bernie. He gave me my first full time job in the National Guard, My husband and I joined Bernie and Beth on camping trips. I remember how excited he was when he bought the motor home. He loved his family and was extremely proud of his children’s accomplishments. He was dedicated to his military service. Our condolences to the family
Boyd/Sanda,
Just read about your dad passing away Boyd!
Lineah and I are sad to here this.
Been through this too many times or self.
Take care of your mom and rest of your family.