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Obituary for Bernard Louis Lieb
Bernard Lieb, a wonderful and generous man, passed away peacefully July 19th at his home in Dixon, CA surrounded by his family. He was born January 25, 1923 in Pocahontas, Iowa. Bernard, or Bernie, as he was known by many, or “Skeet” as he was known by a few, was a proud and giving man known for his love of family, strong friendships, and welcoming generosity. Above all, Bernie loved to spend time with his family, especially his wife of 69 years, Barbara. Together they raised a family of 8 children that grew into a familial network of dozens and dozens that were all welcomed into their home. Bernard was part of what became known as “the greatest generation,” having survived the desperate times in Iowa of the Great Depression he was then pressed into duty serving in the Marine Corps in World War II from 1942 to 1945. His duties as an engineer in the Marines of the Pacific led him back stateside where he finished his engineering education at Iowa State University in 1948. It was there that he met Barbara and they were married and began their family in Ames. It was not long before they followed the “boom” to California, first settling in San Diego, then a one-year stint in Pennsylvania, before returning to develop his engineering prowess and career in Northern California. Sunnyvale was then home to his expanding family. Bernard became a director, manager, and collaborator on many of the great aerospace engineering projects of the late 20th century. He spent approximately 20 years with Ford-Aerospace (Loral). The projects he managed and helped design included many of the earliest communication satellites, lunar seismographic and sampling equipment, the Voyager projects, and the Viking project to Mars (his name is on the side of the Viking lander with only a few other people). Bernard then used his experience at Ford Aerospace to launch his own consulting firm, Lieb and Associates, which became internationally recognized for its accomplishments. In retirement, Bernard and Barbara chose the quiet community of Dixon, CA where they made their home for the last 27 years. This home would continue to welcome an ever expanding family of sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends of the family. Bernard never turned anyone away from his home. He and Barbara welcomed everyone and he always found something to like about all who stepped into his home. Bernard was preceded in death by his father Adelbert; mother Josephine; brothers Thomas and Milton; and sister Ruth. He is survived by wife Barbara; sons Thomas (Kathleen), Mark, Chris (Nancy Witter), Kerry (Kim Walker), daughters Veronica, Sandra, Jody (Steve Flanders), and Mary (Mark Durfee); 24 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sister Joan; and many nephews and nieces who loved him as he loved them. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Bernard will held on August 19th at 10:00 am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. 105 S. 2nd St., Dixon, CA 95620. A burial service will immediately follow at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, C/O St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 105 S. 2nd St., Dixon, CA 95620.
