Perfecto Lionel Bernal

Perfecto Lionel “Lion” Bernal, 69, of Longmont, Colorado, passed away unexpectedly on March 18, 2026, in Springfield, South Dakota. Lionel was born on October 2, 1956, in Boulder, Colorado to Richard Albert Bernal and Eliza Regina (Burquez) Bernal.     In 1975, he enlisted into the United States Army and became a Marksmen shooter. Years later, he met and married Linda Spicer in 1986 and they later divorced.    Although Lionel had been impacted by the Judicial System for most of his life and had a history of substance abuse, he found several avenues to better himself.  While he was incarcerated, he earned his GED, worked as a custodian, and was involved in artistic endeavors. He often drew pictures and sketches for his family. He also became interested in and adopted Native American traditions; often participating in ceremonies and rites.    Lionel held many types of jobs such as doing handyman tasks, working outdoors installing fences, and helping others. He was a plumber by trade for many years, a profession that his dad taught him and one that he truly enjoyed. He retired at the age of 64.     Lionel was passionate and cared deeply about people. He loved helping family and friends and would give his last dollar to a stranger.  He also advocated for the unhoused and at-risk adult population in Longmont. While residing in South Dakota, he was employed at the VA Black Hills Health Care System. He received a Veteran of the Month award. Lionel was very proud of this award.     He enjoyed homemade food, eating chocolate, and watching his Denver Broncos. His favorite companions were canines. His favorite past times included soaking up “some rays”, fishing, playing dominos, board games and card games.   Lionel loved working with his hands and was artistically creative. His talents included making and designing Native American dream catchers, woodburning and working with leather to make medicine bags.  Lionel carried on the Native American ways and tried to pass this wisdom on to his nieces and nephews.    He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister (Gloria); and his Elders. Lionel is survived by his beloved furry companion, Sombra; his sisters, Christina Bernal Sati, Della Gloria Bernal, Alma Bernal; and his brother, Alan Joseph Bernal. He is further survived by 5 nieces, 4 great nephews, 2 great nieces; 2 great - great nephews and 1 great- great niece, and numerous relatives.      He is deeply loved and will be truly missed. A viewing will be held on April 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with a funeral service to follow. The services will be held at Carroll-Lewellen Funeral Home- 503 Terry Street, Longmont, CO. A reception will be held at the Moose Lodge at 1:30 p.m. Burial date is pending at Ft. Logan National Cemetery.