Bernard "Bernie" Paddock

Bernard (Bernie) R. Paddock, 90, passed peacefully Thursday July 16, 2020 at Saint Elizabeth's Medical Center, Wabasha, MN from progressive dementia. He was born July 8, 1930, to Earl and Maybelle Paddock and raised in Kellogg, MN. Bernie’s life was a living example of Ephesians 4:32— “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ forgave you.” Bernie, a contracted mechanic on military airplanes married Geraldine L. Paddock (McIntyre) in 1953 (d. 1978) They had seven children which he claimed as the “sweet spot” for IRS tax benefits. A natural salesman who never met a stranger, his many occupations included door to door sales, gas station attendant, and mail carrier. Bernie, a gifted repairman, was sole proprietor of “Bernie’s Service” of Hastings, MN for over 30 years, operating simultaneously while an employee of Koch Refinery, further honing his strong work ethic. Bernie’s charm and infectious smile won the heart of Carol Falter Crisp, and they married in 1985. Together, they operated The Harrisburg Inn - a B&B in Maiden Rock, WI for 12 years, where he earned the moniker “The Muffin Man”. After selling, they retired in Alma, WI. He enjoyed spending time with family, gardening, fishing, singing in church choir, attending Dixieland jazz concerts and festivals, dancing, playing his harmonica and world-wide travel. Bernie held positions in the Alma City Council, Wisconsin B&B Association, and participated in the local Legion Post 224. Bernie embraced life and lived it to the fullest. He found great joy in helping and serving people by volunteering in his local church and community. Bernie was preceded in death by his sister Bernice Emily, his wife Geraldine, his parents Earl and Maybelle Paddock, brother Herbert, stepdaughter Christine, and son in law Ron Dodson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Falter Crisp, brothers Robert and Harold, and sister Margaret Brownell. Bernie enjoyed his seven children; Alice Dodson, Bernice (Brian) Berg, Gene (Sherry) Paddock, Dennis (Becky) Paddock, Annette (Bob) Goetz, James (Mary) Paddock, Kim Paddock, and eight Falter stepchildren. Bernie’s legacy includes 28 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. A Celebration of Life open to all friends and family will be held SEPTEMBER 20, 2020, 12:00 – 2:00 P.M at FREEDOM PARK, 200 MONROE ST., PRESCOTT, WI. 54021 Memorials may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, or American Legion Post 224 of Alma, WI. Bernie’s family thanks you for your kind words and prayers and kindly requests wearing of masks if attending the Celebration of Life.