Bernard “Bernie” A. Legault

QUEENSBURY –  Bernard “Bernie” A. Legault, 93, of Queensbury, passed away, surrounded by his loved ones, on Friday, August 7, 2020, at the Glens Falls Hospital.

Born on May 15, 1927, in Glens Falls, Bernie was the son of the late Ulric and Juliette (Lemery) Legault.

After his graduation from Glens Falls High School, Bernie enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country during World War II.  He was a witness to history, serving as an escort Guard during the Nuremberg trials at the Palace of Justice, in Germany.  He was responsible for bringing the defendants from their cells to the Court Room.

Upon his return from Europe, he married Lillian Serge on August 24, 1947.  They were married for 36 years until her passing in September 1983.  Bernie remarried Virginia Polunci on September 14, 1984 and they were married for 36 years, until her passing in March 2019.

Bernie began working for Imperial Ciba-Geigy as a dye technician for 37 years until his retirement in November 1984.  He continued to work with his brothers and nephews in residential construction. 

Bernie was a member of the Glens Falls Elks Club #81 for 43 years, where he enjoyed shooting darts in their League every Tuesday night.  As an avid golfer, he loved playing at The Bend of The River and Brookhaven Country Club regularly with his many friends every week.  Bernie and his brothers built a summer camp on Sacandaga Lake where his family and friends enjoyed many summer days and nights, for 40 plus years.

In addition to his parents and both his wives, Bernie was predeceased by his three brothers, Damase, Donald and Jacques Legault and his three grandsons, David Hogan, Kevin Hogan and Christian Morey.

Survivors include his three children, Peter Legault and his wife, Margaret of Raleigh NC, Nora Hogan of Cape May, NJ, Virginia Campbell and her husband, Jeffrey of Rutland VT; stepson and nephew, George Polunci and his wife, Carol of Granville; his “adopted daughter”, Chris Spina of Queensbury; his two grandchildren, Dr. Jessica McLaughlin and Nicholas Campbell; his four great-grandchildren; his brother, Roland Legault and his wife, Jean of South Glens Falls; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to thank Chris Spina for always being there for Bernie, taking care of him and making sure he was safe and never alone. They also send a special thanks to his nephew, Jim Legault and his wife, Donna, for the wonderful care and support given to Bernie.

Friends may call on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 from 10 to 12 P.M.  at Carleton Funeral Home, 68 Main Street, Hudson Falls NY.  Due to the pandemic, 40 people are allowed in the funeral home at one time. Face masks and social distancing are required.

Funeral Services will follow the calling hours at 12 Noon at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery in Queensbury with full military honors.

Following the Rite of Committal, everyone is welcome to a gathering to celebrate Bernie’s life, at the Glens Falls Elks Lodge # 81, on Cronin Road in Queensbury.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations in Bernie’s name be made to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY  12110.