Joseph Earlwin Bernie, 36, of Wagner

Joseph died Friday, November 28, 2014 in rural Wagner, the result of an automobile accident. Funeral services are 10 AM Wednesday at the Community Center. Burial was in St. Paul's Catholic Cemetery in Marty. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Wagner was in charge of arrangements.

Joseph Earlwin Bernie Sr. was born in Yankton, SD on September 26, 1978 to Earlwin John Bernie Sr. and Nancy Jean Bernie. He was the first born baby boy to his sisters Rachel Bernie, Ingrid Bernie-Weddell and Laura Bernie who cherished their new baby brother. Joseph soon became a big brother to Jacob, Jr and Felipe Bernie.

The four grew up together in Marty where they would become best friends with Levi LaMotte, Dewey Cournoyer and other friends and relatives. Joseph attended Marty Indian School where he was an "A" student. At the age of 14 he resided with his sister Rachel in Norfolk, Virginia until he was 17 years of age. In 1996 Joseph Bernie and Laura Hare gave birth to their children Riley, Lonnie and Rosalina. Later Joseph Bernie becase the father to Zoey and Zaki Zephier.

In 2006 Joseph met Melodi Espinoza and her mother "Short" Drapeau. Short told Melodi that he was a fine young man and the only one she would welcome and hold onto him. Soon after they gave birth to twins, Joseph Jr. and Cadence. In 2009 they gave birth to their baby girl Abigail Louise.

Joseph Bernie was a very proud father and loved to teach his children everything and anything they wanted to know. He was the "Rock" of his family. His passion and most loved sport to do was MMA and weight lifting. He loved to grill out and built a fire pit at his step father Richard Neiss' residence where he enjoyed helping his out around the house.
Joseph Earlwin Bernie Sr. was the best son, brother, uncle and soon to be a grandfather. He has been called to the heavens unexpectedly and though his family yearns for him deeply.
We know that we must contain the strength of our beloved Joe because that is what he would have wanted. As he smiles down upon us we all will never forget his smile. We are all very proud of him and honor to call him "ours". Thank you Joe for always being there for us. We love you very much, rest in peace.

Joseph is survived by his mother, father and step father, Richard Neiss, his brothers and sisters, his children and many nieces, nephew, aunts, uncles and friends.