Bernell Edward Huene, age 81, of Breese, passed away on August 25, 2026, at his home.
He was born on March 9, 1945, in Breese, Illinois, the son of the late Edward and Elvera (Liening) Huene.
On January 24, 1970, he married Patricia R. Lohman at St. Francis Church in Aviston. She survives in Breese.
In addition to his parents, Bernell was preceded in death by his sister, Theresa Ann Huene; brothers-in-law, Kevin Weh, Mike Hilmes, Mike Haar, and Mike Wagner; and parents-in-law, Eugene and Cleopha (Athmer) Lohman.
Bernell is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Patricia; his children, Neil (Melanie) Huene of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Eric (Kate) Huene of Lake St. Louis, Missouri; his grandchildren, Mason and Samuel Huene, and Reed and Shay Huene; his sisters, Martie Weh of Breese and Edna Hilmes of Breese; his brother-in-law, Tom (Jane) Lohman; his sister-in-law, Mary Wagner; and many nieces and nephews.
Bernell was a man deeply devoted to his family, his country, and the simple pleasures of a life well lived. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1966. His active-duty service was unexpectedly cut short when he was called home following the death of his father. However, his commitment to his country never wavered. After marrying the love of his life, Bernell faithfully returned to complete his military service obligation.
He retired in 2010 after 42 years as a steelworker at Granite City Steel. Bernell was a member of St. Dominic Catholic Church, Breese American Legion Post 252, and United Steelworkers Local 1899. He was also a proud former Little League coach.
A true family man, Bernell’s greatest joy was his grandchildren. He loved traveling to attend their school activities and made sure he was in the stands cheering them on at their games. Even when miles apart, he maintained a close connection with them, frequently calling and texting to check in, hearing about their day, and reminding them how much they were loved.
Bernell was a man of high standards and remarkable attention to detail. He took immense pride in maintaining a pristine yard and landscape and kept his vehicles in immaculate condition. He was incredibly handy around the house, always ready to fix what was broken, and could often be found happily tinkering in his shed. When he wasn’t working on a project or spending time with family, Bernell enjoyed two of his favorite pastimes: spending time outdoors and cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. Whether tending to his yard, working around the house, relaxing on his patio, or following a Cardinals game, he found peace and satisfaction in the simple joys of everyday life.
His devotion, pride, generosity, and dependable spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Breese, followed by a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 p.m., with Fr. Patrick Peter and Fr. Chuck Tuttle concelebrating. A private interment with military honors will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, plants, or other gifts, memorials may be made to family wishes (payable to Pat Huene), to be used for Veterans organizations, or to children’s charities in Bernell’s memory. Memorials will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 535 N. 5th Street, Breese, IL 62230, which is serving the family.
