Obituary of Bernard Harrower

Bernard Harrower was born on February 3, 1946 and gained his angel wings on March 3^rd, 2021. Bernie immigrated from Greenock, Scotland to Rockville, CT at the age of 16. He was very proud of his heritage and loved to reminisce about his beloved Scotland. He played bagpipes in St. Patricks Pipe Band and enjoyed participating in many parades and Scottish Festivals. He also served our country in the US Navy during the Vietnam War.

He was a vicarious raconteur, and very easy to relate to. He met many amazing friends while leading his son through Boy Scouts, and created a lifelong friendship with Mike & Linda Netto. One Friday night at the “Prospect Café” he met his dear friends Linda & Jerry Vastano and Al Shuckra.  He gained countless friends working in various departments for the State of CT but most notably, he was an honorary member of the women’s club, and those ladies always held a special place in his heart.

Bernie was a brilliant man, and a member of MENSA. He earned several undergrad degrees from MCC, Central CT State University, and UCONN. He also earned his MBA from the University of Hartford. He was very successful in his career with the State of CT, retiring in 2003.

After he retired, he was fortunate to spend the rest of his years with his sweetheart, Kathie Savard. They were active members of Immanuel Congregational Church in Hartford and enjoyed serving at the church for many years. They also enjoyed watching UCONN basketball games together. Bernie lovingly cared for Kathie until she returned to the arms of our Lord. Bernie was recently brought to his home in Newington and cared for by his former wife, Mary Jane Hodge. The tenderness and devotion Mary Jane showed him was beautiful and inspiring. His last chapter of life was filled with many family dinners, long visits from friends and family, especially with his sister Marie and niece Colleen, and lots of shenanigans with his favorite little people.

He will be most missed by his youngest daughter, Stefanie Harrower Donahue of Manchester and grandchildren: Elizabeth, Benjamin, Amelia, Elaina and Alexander. His memory will also be carried on in the hearts of his oldest daughter Lisa Harrower Stevenson and her children; his son, Robert Harrower and his family; and of course by Mary Jane. He is also loved by his sisters, Marie Merrill , Margaret McDermott and Angela Hunter. He also will be missed by his many cousins, nieces and nephews here in the US, those still in Scotland and others across the world. Bernie was predeceased by his youngest sister Shona Harrower Guilbault and his parents, Theresa and John Harrower.

 In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the Covenant House, the MS Foundation, the ALS Foundation or a charity close to your own heart. 

We will celebrate Bernie’s life on Saturday March 20^th at 10am at Tierney’s Funeral Home in Manchester. Please come share your favorite memories with his family as we honor Bernie’s life well lived. Bright clothing and lots of reminiscing will be welcomed!

For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.