First Lt. Bernadette N. Bird, U.S. Army Ret., 76, of Oregon, Ill., died Friday April 17, 2026. “Bernie” was born Nov. 13, 1949, the daughter of Adam and Loretto (Waller) Nagorka. Bernie graduated from Aquinas Dominican High School in Chicago, Class of 1967. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from St. Xavier College School of Nursing, then served her country as a general duty nurse in the Army. She married the love of her life, Richard F. Bird IV, on Oct. 23, 1971, and they were together 51 years. She worked as a neonatal nurse at St. Francis Hospital in Blue Island, Ill., and later as a dental surgery nurse in northwest Illinois.

Bernie was an accredited Illinois Extension Master Gardener through the University of Illinois and loved tending to her own garden to the end of her life. Bernie was also an accomplished quilter, who created countless works of art that she shared with family and the many friends she made in the process. Bernie was a past member and officer of both the Lion’s Club International and the American Legion. Bernie was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Mary Oratory.

Bernie is survived by her son, Richard (Hillary) Bird V; beloved grandchildren, Eleanor and Amelia; brother, Mark (Karen) Nagorka; brother in-law, Michael (Sue) Gerberi; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Bernie was preceded in death by her sister, Kathleen Gerberi; her parents; and her husband.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at St. Mary Oratory, 517 Elm St., Rockford, IL 61102. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. at the church. Bernie will be buried at 10 a.m., Monday, April 27, 2026, with full military honors, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL 60421. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary Oratory or American Legion Post 97, PO Box 597, Oregon, IL 61061.