Born in Sampson, Alberta, the first son of Burr and Ivy Gano. Bernie went to school in Alberta and did farm work with teams as soon as he was big enough. He wrangled dudes in Banff, broke horses for neighbours and rode an exhibition bronc at the Calgary Stampede in 1933.
Bernie served in the US Navy through WWII in both the Atlantic and Pacific. He worked as a ranch hand in several western US states, and was a keen rodeo contestant and enthusiast all his life.
Bernie married his “Swede” in 1940 and together they continued working at various careers. Their son Todd was born in Wyoming, and daughter Dee in Oregon.
In 1958 they moved onto raw land on the McKline River Bend where the family built up a ranch, guide outfitting and guest ranch. Bernie and Swede operated the ranch until grandson Edward and family picked up the reins.
Bernie is survived by his wife Swede, brothers Alton and Lloyd, son Todd, daughter Dee, grandchildren Sarah, Edward and Elizabeth, and great-grandchildren Kaylee, Nolund, Lyndsey and Maela.
There will be no service.