Bernard "Bernie" James Huff, 93, passed away peacefully in Spokane Valley, Washington on September 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Nezperce, Idaho, Bernard was the eldest of twelve children. The son of a carpenter and a homemaker, he grew up with strong values of faith, hard work, and family—principles that guided him throughout his life.

After serving honorably in the U.S. Coast Guard, Bernard built a successful career as an electrician starting out in Hamilton and Great Falls, Montana, before moving to Juneau, Alaska in 1970.  He spent many years with Alascom Telecommunications in Juneau, Alaska before retiring to Hamilton, Montana, in 1988.  He relocated to Spokane Valley, Washington in 2019 where he resided until his passing. Outside of work, he was happiest in the outdoors—fishing Alaska's oceans, setting crab pots, or simply enjoying the fresh air.

A devoted Catholic, Bernard carried his faith quietly but deeply. He will be remembered for his warm laugh, easygoing spirit, love of a good beer with friends, and the unwavering way he showed up for those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Huff and Mildred Hitchcott Huff; two sisters Paula Druffel and Carole Robbins (Don); brother Charles Huff; his wives, Marion (Maryann) Erhart Huff (1999) and Jewell Jackson Huff (2022).

Bernard is survived by his five children: Jeannie Carroll (Hugh), Michael Huff (Kari), Sheral Kirk (Jack), Kathy Gonzales, and Debbie Soto (Edwin); his five stepchildren: Marianna Bethel (Brad), Edward Maki, William Maki, Doug Maki, and Donna Maki and their families; 10 grandchildren – Joshua Wheeler, Alicia Soto, Christopher Heck, Danielle Sweet, Amanda Staehle, Matthew Gonzales, Ashley Hiebenthal, Adam Soto, Kaia Huff, and Sylvie Huff; 15 great-grandchildren – Colin Wheeler, Cecil Patterson, Izzy Harden, Oliver Gonzales, Ezra Gonzales, Raelynn Heck, Mia Sweet, Cade Staehle, Michael Hiebenthal, Millie Hiebenthal, Bryce Heck, Watson Soto, Wesley Staehle, Maria Hiebenthal, and Oliver Soto ; eight siblings – Mary Jane Johnson, Sheral Scott (Keith), Doris Winslow (Don); John Huff (Judy), Geraldine "Gerri" Lee, Robert "Bob" Huff (Sherry), James "Jim" Huff (Karen), and William "Bill" Huff (Joanne); and many cousins, nieces and nephews. His large family was his pride and joy, and his legacy will continue to live on through them.

Bernard will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary's Church on September 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.  The Rosary will begin at 9:30 a.m. for those who would like to participate.

Interment will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton, Montana, on September 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.