Bernard “Bernie” Dean Navratil, 87, of Crete, was born Feb. 16, 1935, on a farm west of Wilber, to Louis and Anna (Chmelir) Navratil. Bernie passed away Sept. 16, 2022, in Lincoln.
He attended District 3 Saline County and 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 and then personnel management specialist, achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant.
Bernie met the love of his life, Mary Beth Cogswell, of Friend, 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, two children were born, Brenda Kay and Boyd L. Navratil.
When his health permitted, he took great pride in his yard and vehicles. He was also an avid Husker fan, attending many games in person and cheering loudly at home. Bernie enjoyed loading up his motorhome with many friends and heading out-of-state for Husker football games. Another passion was following the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs and attending many of his grandchildren’s activities through their school years into college. He also enjoyed playing on 8-ball pool teams, cards and bowling. Following his retirement from the military, he spent many hours playing golf. He and Beth spent 20 years as Winter Texans, enjoying many park activities. They also took many cruises, traveled much of the United States as well as Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Iceland.
Bernie was a life-time member of the United Church of Christ, First 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 and many other committees, receiving the American Legion District 12 Citizenship Award. Other organizations Bernie was involved with included 40 and 8 Voiture Locale #103, Lions Club International and FOE Eagles.
Survivors include his wife, Mary “Beth” of 65 years; daughter, Brenda (Rod) Frahm of Glenwood, Iowa; son, Boyd (Sanda) Navratil of Lincoln; grandchildren, Alaia (Cameron) Holmes and Seth (Julia) Navratil, all of Lincoln; two great-grandchildren, Zoe Holmes and Colter Navratil; sister, Ana Lou (Larry) Roth of Omaha; sister-in-law, Darlene Navratil of Lincoln; brother-in-law, Charles Cogswell of Friend; and sister-in-law, Becky Cogswell of Florence, Kentucky. Bernie is proceeded in death by his parents; brother, Marvin Navratil; brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Donna Navratil; parents-in-law, Lester and Mary Cogswell; brother-in-law, Donald Cogswell; sister-in-law, Gwenda Cogswell; six nephews and other family members.
The funeral service was Sept. 23 at United Church of Christ, First Congregational, in Crete. A graveside service with military honors was Sept. 23 at Omaha National Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested in care of Hallam American Legion Post #294 or United Church of Christ, First Congregational. Condolences may be left for the family online at trumpmemorials.com.
