James F. Bernatis

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jim Bernatis on January 11, 2026 at HopeWest in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Jim died peacefully surrounded by his wife Pauline of 62 years, his beloved daughters and cherished grandchildren.

Jim was born on June 19, 1943 to Thomas and Ruth (Watson) Bernatis in Denver Colorado. The family moved to Rock Springs Wyoming where Jim was raised.

After graduating from high school, Jim attended the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. After the Academy Jim began his 37-year government career with the Bureau of Reclamation in Fontenelle, Wyoming. Jim met the love of his life Pauline and they were married in Kemmerer Wyoming on May 18, 1963. Jim was offered a job in Denver where he and Pauline began their life together.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman spending his free time fly fishing, playing golf, hunting, cycling. He wouldn’t miss watching his grandchildren participate in their events from debate to baseball and golf. He always looked forward to his annual fishing trips with friends in Salmon, Idaho.

Jim is survived by his wife Pauline, daughters Paula Bernatis (Montrose) and Joanie Bernatis (Montrose) Grandsons Christopher Bernatis (Denver) and Seth (Lyndzee Echave) Barker (Grand Junction) and Granddaughter Kendyll Bernatis (Montrose).

Survived by his siblings Jean (Tim) VanderRiet ( Parker, Colorado) John (Ellen) Bernatis (Green River, Wyoming) David (Denise) Bernatis (Rock Springs, Wyoming) Tom (Kathy) Bernatis (Rock Springs, Wyoming) and brother-in-law Don Larsen (Kemmerer, Wyoming) along with many nieces and nephews.

Words cannot express the loss we feel. Jim (Dad) (Grandpa) was our rock and gave us unwavering support. He set an example for us all on how to be a kind, compassionate and a loving human being.

At Jim’s request cremation will be held and there will be a private family service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to HopeWest in Jim’s memory would be appreciated.