Bernard Frank Shimanek

With joy, love and gratitude, we celebrate the remarkable life of Bernard Frank Shimanek who passed away peacefully on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the age of 93.

Born March 28, 1933, in Hennessey, OK to Bohomill and Fannie Shimanek, Bernie lived a life defined not only by his hard-working accomplishments, but was known for his unforgettable smile, quick humor, playful spirit and a hearty laughter that his family and friends will never forget. He never missed a chance to tell a good story, especially one that grew a little bit better with each retelling.

After graduating from Hennessey High School in 1951 Bernie joined the United States Air Force in Oct. 1952 and proudly served his country until Oct. 1956.

After the Air Force, he continued serving his community and retired as Garfield County Commissioner District One. Bernie also loved farming a good wheat harvest and if something broke, he could repair it with baling wire and duct tape.

Whether offering advice, teasing those he loved the most, or finding humor in everyday moments, Bernie had a special way of making people feel at home.

Above all, he loved his family. He taught them how to plow fields, harvest wheat, work hard, ride a bike and drive a car. The lessons he planted will outlast any crop he ever grew.

Though he’s gone from the fields, his family takes comfort knowing Heaven probably needed someone to straighten out the tractors, organize the weather, and explain to Saint Peter the proper way to grow wheat.

Bernie, preceded in death by three sisters, two brothers, and his wife of 36 years, Linda Gail Shimanek, is survived by two brothers: Jim Shimanek and Danny Shimanek; eight

Children: Renee Settlemires and husband David, Mike Shimanek and wife Judith, Craig Shimanek and wife Melissa, Curtis Shimanek and wife Kelli, Lance Brzowski and wife Glynda, Shelly Mangion, John Brzowski and wife Roxanna, and Chris Brzowski and wife Juli; 20 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered as the Dad, Uncle, Sibling, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, and friend who loved a great John Wayne movie.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dighton-Marler Funeral Home. Visitation will be from noon to 5 p.m. and Rosery will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026, and Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Friday, all at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Perry. Burial will follow at McGuire Cemetery.