1950-2022
Bernhardt brought his wise, wild spirit to the hearts of many. He was a beloved friend, elder and member of his community in Boulder, Colorado, where he lived for over 35 years.
He was born in Bedburg, Germany on April 10th, 1950 to Klara Quantius and Franz Düren and he later became older brother to Hubert Düren. He left Germany and came to the United States when he was just 20 years of age.
He was a generous, loving and hard working man who took pride in the quality of his work and most always had a twinkle in his eye and a hum in his chest – one of his defining characteristics. He was well known as a master craftsman and devoted woodworker who created till the end of his days.
He loved the study and practice of philosophy, being surrounded with piles of books, painting, gardening, and playing chess. Cooking and devouring homemade feasts with his daughter Lily (age 36) was a long-time favorite. He knew something of just about everything and conversations with him were expansive and wild – never boring. He was a voice for the liberation, justice and upliftment of humanity. He had plentiful life wisdom to share and could always turn a frown upside down. His care and concern had a way of bringing hope and humor to every situation.
Buddhist practice blossomed in him early by way of his teacher Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and accompanied him well in his later years. He died spiritually prepared for his own passing and reincarnation.
Bernhardt passed suddenly yet peacefully in his home in North Boulder on July 7th at the rich age of 72. His beloved dog and companion Aiden passed just 5 weeks prior.
We will celebrate his life on the morning of September 18th from 10am to 1pm at Foothills Park in North Boulder where his dog Aiden took him on many walks. If you would like to donate in their honor please consider Brighter Days Dog Rescue or giving in your own way towards animal welfare.
He will be missed, remembered and felt forevermore.
I agree with all that was written about Bernhardt already. There will never be another Bernhardt! A hug from him was a solid thing that could carry me far. You will always always be in my heart Bernhardt!!!