August 22, 1924 – October 23, 2022
James L. Bernauer, affectionately known as Jimmy, passed away peacefully at the age of 98 during the early morning hours of Sunday, October 23, 2022.
Jimmy worked the majority of his life for Mobil Oil Corp. retiring after 42 years of service. Jimmy was very active in public service, serving as St. Mary Parish Civil Defense Director for 47 years, being appointed by Gov. Earl Long. He also served as a Councilman for the City of Patterson for 28 years as well as serving as Mayor of Patterson for 12 years. During his service to the Patterson Community, he was instrumental in securing grants for the city, including funds to construct the new City Hall, Police Department, Jail, and Fire Substation south of Hwy 90. In 1992 Jimmy was presented with the American Legion Post 242 Russell Breaux Citizen of the Year Award.
Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Terri Bernauer Burnside and her husband Wolfgang.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Lena Cutrera Bernauer; his parents, Wilbur Louis Bernauer and Virginia Robinson Bernauer; and his brother, CPL Wilbur Louis Bernauer Jr.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Patterson during an 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial. Father Herb Bennerfield will be the Celebrant for the Mass. Following the Mass, he will be laid to rest in the St. Joseph Cemetery Mausoleum. A gathering of family and friends will be held Wednesday at Ibert’s Mortuary in Patterson from 9:00 AM until time of dismissal at 10:30 AM.
Family and friends may view the obituary online by visiting www.iberts.com and are encouraged to share their condolences, cherished memories, love, and support for the family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc., 1111 Lia Street, Patterson, LA 70392, (985) 395-7873.