Bernadette A. Bales, age 71 of North Platte, passed away September 22, 2016 at her home. She was born February 10, 1945 at Valentine to Thomas and Betty (Auhl) McQuade. She grew up in Valentine and attended Valentine High School. She later moved to Gering where she met Carl “Buzz” Bales and they were married on April 5, 1968. Mr. Bales served in the United States Air Force which led them to be located in Louisiana, Missouri, Illinois, the Azores, and Oklahoma. Following his death, Bernadette moved to North Platte in 1989 to be near her family. She enjoyed cooking, crafts, gardening, and was known for her delicious jelly and green beans. She was a devoted mother and loving grandmother. Survivors include her daughter, Vurlee Toomey, son, Eddie (Jennifer) Bales, grandchildren, Thomas (Alicia Perkins) Bales, Ryan Toomey, Samantha and Carli Bales, brother, Tim (Jan) McQuade, sister, Yvonne (Don) Connery, sister-in-law, Mary McQuade, brother-in-law, Larry Schaffert, nieces, nephews, other relatives and a close friend, Linda (Don) Davis. Memorial services will be 10:30 am Saturday, October 1, 2016 at Carpenter Memorial Chapel. A private family inurnment will be at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery. A memorial has been established in her memory. Online condolences may be shared at www.carpentermemorial.com. Carpenter Memorial Chapel in care of arrangements.