Bernard Thomas “Bernie” Mettler, age 60 of Long Prairie, MN, died tragically in a UTV accident on Saturday, April 13, 2024. He was born on September 3, 1963 in Wessington Springs, South Dakota, to Thomas and Margaret (Simmons) Mettler. He moved with his family to Swanville, Minnesota at the age of two. Bernie spent his formative years attending Swanville School and working at the Circle R Ranch, where he met his future wife, Cindy. After the birth of his third child, Bernie endeavored to receive his Associates Degree in Law Enforcement from Brainerd Community College. This led to a career serving his community in Staples, Minnesota, Madison, Minnesota, and later St. Louis County. Bernie’s character and drive to help people defined his 25-year career with the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. Whether guiding moose off a busy road or donating pork to his church, Bernie acted always as a steward to those in need. Bernie spent his retirement years, caring for his family and friends, and sharing his love of the outdoors with those he loved. If you wanted to find Bernie, he’d be on the lake with a rod, in the field with a rifle, or hauling a load of firewood to a friend.

Bernie is survived by his parents, Tom and Margaret Mettler; his siblings, Randy (Marge) Mettler, Bob (Cindy) Mettler, Bill (Kristi) Mettler, Joni (Bryan) Nelson, and Richard Mettler; survived also by his three children, Josh (Lori) Mettler, Jeremy (Hollee) Mettler, and Danielle (Dave Hanson) Mettler; former wife, Cindy Mettler; stepchildren, Bryce Sampson-Bernstrom, Brenden Donner, and Kayle Donner; grandchildren, Wyatt Mettler, Connor Mettler and Brayden Donner; and many, many beloved nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Worship Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 20, 2024 at the Embarrass, Evangelical Free Church, 5606 Taylor Road East, Embarrass. Pastor Marlin Bjornrud will officiate.

Memorials are preferred, and may be sent to Joshua Mettler, c/o 5606 E Taylor Rd,  Embarrass, MN 55732.