Bernard J. Law, 78, of Canastota, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Oneida Health Hospital.  He was born on October 25, 1947, in Rome, NY a son of the late Bernard E. and Alice Mary Lawless Law. He received his Bachelor’s Degree at Hiram Scott College in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, and became a certified teacher.  Bernie proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era from 1970 to 1972.

Bernie began his career in education with the Canastota Central School District as a health teacher, later continuing his career with the Whitesboro Central School District, at Hart’s Hill Elementary School, as a physical education teacher. Bernie began coaching several sports but soon moved to coaching Junior Varsity Football where his love for the sport and his players was unmatched. As both a teacher and coach, he shared that passion with his students and players, inspiring many with his dedication, work ethic, and love of the game. Bernie retired from teaching in 2002.

Bernie’s love for his students and sports lead him to attend many high school sporting events even after retirement.  After many years he would still tell stories about all his students and players remembering every person’s first and last name, their friends and family and all their accomplishments. He was so proud of ‘his kids.’ He remained a passionate fan of the Green Bay Packers and closely followed baseball as a devoted Los Angeles Dodgers fan. Sports were more than a pastime for Bernie, they were a central part of who he was, shaping his career, his friendships, and the way he connected with others.

Bernie was a member of St. Mary’s on the Lake Parish and the American Legion in Sylvan Beach and a devoted contributor to St. Judes, Shriners, and Make-A-Wish.

Bernie is survived by his brother John, many nieces and nephew, his students, colleagues, and friends who he considered family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am on Friday, May 15, 2026 at St. Mary's Church, 13 Marvin St., Clinton, NY 13323.

Interment with military honors in St. Mary's Parish Cemetery will follow.

There will be no calling hours.

Arrangements have been entrsuted to R.P. Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., 10 E. Park Row, Clinton, NY 13323.

To send a condolence please visit www.rpheintzfsi.com