Obituary Bernard "Bernie" D. Averse, 89, of Washington, formerly of Springfield, passed away at 1:02pm Wednesday, September 21, 2016 at UnityPoint Health Methodist in Peoria. Bernie was born January 9, 1927 in Taylorville to the late George and Ada Davis Averse. He married the love of his life, Joyce Marlene Beattie on June 25, 1949 in Springfield. Surviving is his wife, Marlene, of Washington; and his daughter Deana (Mike) Bradley of East Peoria. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Norman Dunn. Bernie graduated from Feitshans High School in Springfield, and went on to serve his country in the US Army from 1945-1947. He retired from Fiat-Allis Manufacturing in 1983. He was a kind, loving and generous man with a wonderful sense of humor and will be greatly missed by those who love him. To honor Bernie's memory, take a moment to help another person, say a kind word, or put a smile on someone's face. Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory, Washington is assisting the family with cremation services.