Deena Bea Bernhardt

Our beloved Deena Wendling Bernhardt was enveloped in the warmth of her family's love when she serenely departed
this life on Friday, March 22, 2024. Deena is lovingly remembered by her husband of 58 beautiful years, William “Bill”
Bernhardt; her cherished children, Scott Bernhardt and Cindy (Bernhardt) Sells; her adored five grandchildren, most of
whom reside in Moses Lake; her protective sister, Nita Bonagofski; and her caring brother, Duane Wendling. She is
preceded in death by her parents, Preston and Beatrice Wendling, whose legacy of love and kindness she carried forward
with grace. In addition, Deena considered herself a mother to many, including her informally adopted son, Reza B’Far,
whom she welcomed into her heart and home with open arms, exemplifying her boundless capacity to love.
Born on March 20, 1942, in Anchorage, Alaska, and growing up in Chehalis, Washington, Deena blossomed into a
beacon of positivity and generosity, characteristics that defined her interactions and endeared her to all she met. Despite
her diminutive stature, she was a giant in spirit, her presence marked by an unparalleled capacity to love and an
unwavering belief in the potential of those around her.
Deena dedicated a significant portion of her life to education, serving with distinction in the Moses Lake, Quincy, and
Ephrata School Districts. Her unique gift was her ability to recognize and nurture the individual strengths of each student,
illuminating their unique talents. Beyond the classroom, Deena was a mentor to many, including those she never taught
but reached through her travels around the world and her profound impact within the community.
Her journey of faith led her to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Moses Lake, where she deepened her
spiritual commitments and continued to enrich the lives of those within her church community. Deena never truly left
teaching, continuing to share her wisdom and faith as a Sunday school teacher. Deena's unwavering faith and boundless
love have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her, ensuring her spirit will continue to inspire and
comfort.
To celebrate Deena's extraordinary life, a memorial service will be held on April 27th, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-Day Saints located at 1515 S. Division St. in Moses Lake with services starting at 11am. Her family warmly
invites all those whose lives were touched by Deena to join in commemorating her remarkable journey. In recognition of
Deena's lifelong dedication to teaching, nurturing, and supporting others, the family is accepting contributions in her
memory that will be donated to causes close to her heart, either in person or at https://gofund.me/cf635325
Deena's legacy is one of love, faith, and an unshakeable belief in the goodness of others. She will be profoundly missed,
yet her spirit will continue to guide and uplift us always.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deena Bea Bernhardt, please visit our floral store.