Bernard DeMars

Hastings resident, Bernard S. 'Smokey' DeMars, 95, died Thursday, August 16, 2007 at Perkins Pavilion.

Rosary will be Sunday, August 19, 2007; 7:00 P.M. at Butler-Volland Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial with military rites will be Monday, August 20, 2007; 10:30 A.M. at St. Michael's Catholic Church with Father Michael Houlihan officiating. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery, Hastings, Nebraska. Visitation will be Saturday, August 18, 2007; 1 P.M. - 9 P.M., Sunday August 19, 2007; 1 P.M. - 9 P.M. at the funeral home and Monday, August 20, 2007, 1 hour prior to service at the church. A memorial fund will be established in Smokey's name or directed to the Hastings Catholic Schools Matching Gift program.

Smokey was born October 21, 1911 in Campbell, NE to Emile & Orise (Roy) DeMars. He grew up in Hastings, graduating from Hastings High School in 1931. He attended the University of Nebraska and graduated with a degree in Business Administration in 1938. On February 2, 1942 he married Pauline A. Schmitz of Roseland, NE. He was soon called to active duty and served in the European Theatre as a Captain. He maintained his connections with his Army buddies until his death. After returning from WWII, he owned and operated DeMars Distributing Company, remaining active in the beer business for 50 years. Smokey developed many friendships during his years as a beer wholesaler, living his life with gusto. Smokey took great pride in his work on Southern Hills Country Club, volunteering many hours on the course itself, which earned him a lifetime membership. Following the death of his wife, Pauline on August 7, 1982, Smokey traveled the world extensively. He fell in love with China, making three trips to various areas. He also pursued his genealogical ancestry, tracing his family to 17th century France. His travels defined his years, exploring life and its various forms, never aging in mind and spirit. He was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, American Legion, VFW, Southern Hills and Elks Club.

Smokey was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline; brother, Roy and many friends and customers.

Survivors include:
Sister: Phyllis Micek of Hastings
Children and Spouses: Roy and Gay DeMars of Wood River
Dianne and Mike Atchity of Hastings
Larry DeMars of Hastings
Jeanne DeMars of Omaha
Grandchildren: Emily (DeMars) Kranz, Kristen (Atchity) Fritsch, Sara (DeMars) Cerasoli, Adam DeMars, Mic Atchity, Tim Atchity, Anne Atchity, Ted Atchity, Liz Kieffe and Patrick Kieffe
Great Grandchildren: 7