Teacher and loving uncle, Bernard J. Harkins, "Bernie," dies at 81 years old

Bernard J. Harkins, fun-loving man of faith and family, died on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at the age of 81 following his battle with an acute illness. Born in Woburn, he was the son of the late T. Ralph Harkins and Elizabeth Harkins (Gartland) of Woburn.

Following his high school graduation, Bernie sought to enrich his Catholic beliefs, and he therefore entered the seminary. He first traveled to New Jersey, where he studied at the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology. Bernie then attended the Oblate College in Washington D.C., as well as the Our Lady of Hope Seminary in Newburgh, New York.

While religion always remained a pillar of his life, Bernie came to find that his true life-long passion was teaching- and he decided to commit to it as a profession rather than becoming a priest. He ultimately left the seminary and taught within the Woburn school system for nearly 40 years. His teaching style and quick wit left a lasting impact on his students' lives.

Bernie loved camping, travelling, and was a master handyman. There was no job too big; no job too small. He was always able to get things done. His home and yard were kept pristine; both were fine-tuned and impeccable. He was a reserved, respectful gentleman, always willing to lend a hand.

Bernie is survived by his loving sister Mary Downey, with whom he lived with all his life, sister-in-law Beverley Harkins (McCall), Mary`s four children Kathleen Driscoll (Downey), Colleen Delano (Downey) and her husband Michael Delano, Sean Downey, and Kevin Downey and his wife Doreen Downey (Vokey). He was and always will be their beloved "Unk," as he was often referred to endearingly. He is also survived by many other dear nieces and nephews, as well as many loving great nieces and nephews. Sadly, Bernie is predeceased by his brothers, Thomas Harkins and Leo Harkins, and his son-in-law John Driscoll.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours at the McLaughlin - Dello Russo Family Funeral Home, Wednesday, November 13th, from 4 to 8 p.m. and again on Thursday morning November 14th, at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main St., Woburn, at 10 a.m. Services will conclude with interment at Calvary Cemetery, Woburn.