Bernhard E. Hoeckelberg, 75, of Hartford, passed away Thursday morning , April 20, 2017  at Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph.

Cremation has taken place as per his wishes.  Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of SW Michigan directly or sent in care of the funeral home. Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home is assisting in the arrangements.  Those wishing to leave a message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.

Bernhard was born on April 9, 1942 in Valparaiso, Indiana to Eugene and Mary (Phelps) Hoeckelberg.  He was a graduate of Niles High School.  On July 8, 1962, he married Marilyn Wilson, who preceded him in death in 2010. Prior to retirement, Bernhard was a farmer. He loved going to the Osceola Dragway on Sundays where he worked as the pit crew on his son's modified Maverick. Bernhard was also well known for riding his Simplex motorcycle around Osceola Dragway. He will be missed by his family.

He is survived by his children, Bernhard Hoeckelberg of Ga., Thure (Tracey) Hoeckelberg of Jacksonville, FL, Gene (Patty) Hoeckelberg of St. Joseph, Cassie (John) Bell of South Haven, and Albert Hoeckelberg of Plymouth, IN; eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister Lorraine Putz and his parents.