Mohawk - Mr. Bernard "Bernie" Rockwell, 86, a lifelong resident of Mohawk, NY, passed away August 30, 2026 at the Wynn Hospital in Utica, peacefully with his beloved wife and family at his side.

Bernie was born in Herkimer on March 23, 1940, a son of the late Bernard and Jennie Warkowski Rockwell, Sr. and he attended and graduated from Mohawk Schools.

Bernie was a devoted husband to Patricia Orendorf. The two were married in Blessed Sacrament Church in Mohawk on October 3, 1959, sharing more than 66 years of cherished memories. His family was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. A true craftsman, Bernie dedicated much of his life to the automotive industry, operating his own business, Bernie's Body Repair in Mohawk from 1969 until his "retirement" in 2003. His skillful hand and keen eye for detail earned him the respect and admiration of his many customers and colleagues over the decades.

Bernie is survived by his loving wife, Pat of Mohawk; his children, Christine Dopson of Herkimer, Mark Rockwell and grand-dog Rylee of Mohawk, and Melinda Harrington and her husband, Scott of Richfield Springs; three grandchildren, Cody, Curtis, and Katie; three great-grandchildren, Jordyn, Mykah, and Avery; and two brothers, Robert Rockwell of Alabama and David Rockwell and his wife, Beverly, of Mohawk. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Elizabeth and Harriet as well as numerous beloved grand-dogs.

As we remember Bernie, we reflect on a life filled with hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to those he loved. He found great enjoyment in the simple things in life, especially spending time outdoors. Bernie loved ice fishing, being in the woods, and cutting and splitting firewood. He also took great pride in restoring his vintage Crosleys, a pastime that reflected his patience, skill, and appreciation for bringing something special back to life. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the things he loved, and the many memories he created along the way.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 10:30 am, in the Mohawk Cemetery Annex at the top of Vickerman Hill in Mohawk, where family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bernie's life. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no public calling hours. All who knew him are invited to join in this heartfelt tribute as we honor the man whose spirit will remain in our hearts forever.

Bernie's family would like to extend special thanks to the 3rd floor East ICU nurses for their care and compassion shown to Bernie in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Bernie's great love for animals, the family requests that donations be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society, 514 NY-5S, Mohawk, NY 13407.

To leave condolences for Bernie's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com