Max Bernard Field was dedicated in 1998, to honor retired HHS Principal Max B. Bernard. A clever scheme got the unknowing Mr. Bernard down on the field before the game to dedicate the football field to him. When the canvas covering the scoreboard was dropped, the scoreboard revealed MAX BERNARD FIELD . . . What a surprise!
The shocked Mr. Bernard turned around to see his name in big letters on the scoreboard. As only he could do, his body language gave what is described as “that signature Mr. Bernard jolt of awe and bewilderment” while his family seemed to appear out of nowhere to celebrate the special occasion with him. I recall Mr. Bernard being overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude as the Dragon fans gave him a well deserved standing ovation.
Mr. Bernard moved to Holyoke from Cedar Bluffs, Nebraska. While in Cedar Bluffs, he taught social studies, coached, and was principal for 10 years. He was our HHS Principal from 1960 to 1987. He was always one of the loudest fans cheering for the Dragons, supporting the vocational programs, and attending the fine arts productions. He also attended the Friday morning “Quarterback Club” of coaches and boosters down at the local cafe.
God gifted Mr. Bernard with a beautiful singing voice and the ability to whistle any tune like he was Andy Griffith. He was an active member of the Holyoke Lions Club, the American Legion, and Zion Lutheran Church. Mr. Bernard was also an avid golfer, card player, and loyal friend. His family includes his wife Rachel Bernard, sons Brad and Larry Bernard, and daughter Marcia Bernard Dalton.
The design for the scoreboard was created by art teacher Jerry Williamson who also painted a Homecoming sign on canvas to cover the board before its reveal. Mike Miller, HHS agriculture teacher, cut the design for the scoreboard out of metal.
Today when I see MAX BERNARD FIELD on the football scoreboard I have fond memories of an amazing, firm handed, headshaking, loving leader of HHS. He has been described as “a great man and a true role model” by former students. Thank you once again Max B. Bernard for your dedicated 26 years to the Holyoke School District! You touched many lives in our school and community. I’m sure you are wearing your green while cheering on the Dragons from the bleachers in heaven. icture
Pictured is Trevor Dalton, 2014 HHS graduate and grandson of Max Bernard.