Ross J. Bernhardt, 66, passed away early Saturday, December 22, 2012, at Valley View Villa Nursing Home in Fort Morgan. He was born in Denver on August 17, 1946. He was adopted by Jacob & Lovie Bernhardt. Ross was raised on the Bernhardt family farm near Wiggins. He graduated from Wiggins High School and continued to work on his parent's farm. He entered the US National Guard and was injured while serving with the National Guard. After returning to Morgan County, Ross owned and operated a vacuum cleaner repair and carpet cleaning business. Ross attended the Community of Christ Church in Fort Morgan. He enjoyed playing dominos, tinkering with mechanical things, drinking coffee with friends and absolutely loved his job. Ill health forced his retirement. Survivors include his children, James Bernhardt of Fergus Falls, MN, Shawn Bernhardt of Fort Morgan, Katrina Glover of Mineral Wells, TX, and LeAnn Vick of Fort Morgan; his step-children, Tamalena Martinez of Tucumcari, NM, Allen Piland of Waverly, MO, Troy Piland of Alexander City, AL, and Virgina Piland of Fort Morgan; 1 sister, Carol McIsaac of Pueblo, CO; his former spouse, Beverly Alexander of Fort Morgan; 27 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. A funeral service will be held Thursday, December 27, 2012, at 11:00 AM at the Community in Christ Church, 806 West Street in Fort Morgan. The service will conclude at the church. Visitation will be at the Heer Mortuary Chapel in Fort Morgan on Wednesday from 5 – 7 PM. Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the Ross Bernhardt Memorial Fund c/o Heer Mortuaries.