She was born on April 26, 1935, to Bernard and Bertha (Maki) Oja on the family farm in Jacobson. Bernie grew up in the Pengilly area where she met her husband George Krtinich and they were united in marriage on January 31, 1953, in the Nashwauk Lutheran Church. They moved to Babbitt in 1956 where they raised their two sons, Danny and Steve.

Bernie was employed by the Jaeger family at Babbitt Drug where she made many lifelong friends. Throughout her life, Bernie enjoyed bowling including traveling to tournaments, and her claim to fame was she outlived the Babbitt bowling alley. In addition, she enjoyed golfing, bus trips, gambling, and always having a good time. Bernie was also known for her amazing gift of gab, which she mastered until the very end.

Bernie is preceded in death by her parents, husband George, brothers Kenny and Rodney, brother-in-law Uncle Joe, and beloved cat Belle. She is survived by her sons Danny (Connie) Krtinich and Steve Krtinich; grandchildren Jeff Krtinich and Stacy Krtinich, Katie (Jordan) Richards, Joe (Charlsie Sartain) Krtinich; and great-granddaughters Evelyn Margot Krtinich and Ann Bernadine Richards; sister Annette (Bob) Pozos; sistersin- law Mary Ann Elfering and Ginny Oja; and nieces and nephews Dena, Chrissy, Gary, Sue, Kim, Eric, Karen. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.