Bernard Bussard

Mr. Bernard Ross “Bernie” Bussard, 63, a long-time resident of Clarion County, Pennsylvania, died Good Friday, March 25, 2016, at his Smithsburg, Maryland, residence.

Born December 2, 1952, he was the son of the late Lewis Ross Bussard and Bertha Alice Wiles Bussard Rimer.  He was a graduate of Union Joint High School.

Directly from high school, Bernie worked 20 years with Rimersburg Plumbing and Heating (RIPCO).  He retired as a 911/Emergency Dispatcher for Clarion Control, Clarion, Pennsylvania.

His talents and interest spanned a broad range.  Bernie was involved with his home community serving as a volunteer and former Fire Chief of  Rimersburg Fire Department.   Prior to his career with Clarion County, he was involved in the plumbing and heating industry; and considered a Master in his trade.  Consequently, Bernie was a member of the American Builders Association; and a Master Instructor for Associated Builders and Contractors Inc.-Barr Construction Institute, Hagerstown.

Bernie was an accomplished guitarist who enjoyed various genres; from classic acoustical guitar, to country and rock.

He is survived by his sister, Dixie L. Cunningham, with whom he was resided while in Maryland; by four nieces and a nephew, Virginia Livingston of Myersville, Laura Graham and husband Danny of Smithsburg, Michelle Davis and husband Brian of Hagerstown, Thomas Livingston of El Mirage, Arizona, and Robin Richner, also of Hagerstown; and eight grand nieces and grand nephews, Derrik Graham and wife Christine, Trevor Cannon, Daniel Carlsen, Jordan Savage, Kris Richner, Ethan Livingston-Beachy, Danielle Richner, and Nicole Davis.

Arrangements are being handled by Andrew K. Coffman Funeral Home, Inc., Hagerstown.  Graveside inurnment will be Saturday, May 21, at 1:00 PM at Oak Grove Cemetery, beside St. Paul's Community Church, Chicora, Pennsylvania.  The Rev. Ken R. Tack will officiate.

The omission of flowers is requested.