Bernard E. Safford

Brasher Falls- Mr. Bernard "Bernie" E. Safford, 75, passed away Monday December 7, 2015 at the Massena Memorial Hospital with his loving family at his side. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Bern was born in Owls' Head (Belmont) on September 27, 1940 to the late Hugh and Irene (Courser) Safford. He was raised and educated locally, graduating from Franklin Academy in 1960. He proudly served his country in the US Air Force from 1961-65, earning an honorable discharge into the Air Force Reserves. On August 18, 1979 Bernard married Deborah Gero in Helena at the home of her brother, Francis. They shared a blessed union of 36 years filled with hard work, dedication, and love. For 36 years he worked as an oiler in the maintenance department at ALCOA, retiring in 2003. Bern was the epitome of a hard worker. It didn't matter if he was working at the plant, lending someone a hand, or working at home; he was a dedicated worker and a good helper. He truly and fully enjoyed the outdoors; especially hunting, fishing, ski-doing, and 4-wheeling. Those who knew and loved him will always remember how he was a lawn care perfectionist, taking so much pride in the appearance of his lawn and home; so much that in the winter, the Safford's were the only ones with a 'black top' driveway. He loved to take trips to Florida, always looking forward to spending winters with his brother-and-sister-in-laws. Bernie felt his greatest blessing in his life was family; the love of his life, Deborah and the "apple of his eye", Brandi. As a Dad, he was selfless and wanted to give his daughter the best life as he was able. When Brandi married, Bernie received the son he never had and they gave him two grandsons, who are his pride and joy. His love for them will remain in their hearts forever. Throughout the years, Bernie was a member of several hunting clubs, and also a member of the ALCOA 25 year club. He is survived by his wife, Debbie, his daughter and son-in-law, Brandi and Martin Thomas, 2 grandsons, Samuel Eli and Henry Bernard Thomas of Richmond, VT., his sister Kathleen Fountain of Malone; also his brother-and-sister-in-laws, Francis and Beatrice Gero of Massena, Beverly and Vernon Malark of Cadyville, Rudy Gero of MA, Harold and Beth Gero of Norfolk, John and Jean Gero of Hopewell Junction, and Donnie and Doreen Carron of CT, and his dear friend and long time fishing buddy, Bill Trainer and his wife, Barbara, who have been constant support for Bern and his family, and several nieces and nephews. Bernie was predeceased by his parents, Hugh and Irene Safford, his step-mother, Doris Gilmore Safford, and his brother Gerald Safford, sister, Janice Vidock, and infant sister, Linda. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4-7pm. Bernard's Funeral Service will be celebrated Thursday at 11:00 at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Burial will follow at Visitation Cemetery in Norfolk. For those wishing to express an act of kindness, memorial contributions can be made in Bern's honor to the Brasher Winthrop Volunteer Fire Department or Tri Town Rescue Squad. Memories and condolences can be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.