Bernardo G. Amaya, 90 of Salinas, CA passed away at home surrounded by his family on April 7, 2025. Bernie was born in Pflugerville, Texas, on February 22, 1935, to Angela G. and Juan M. Amaya. He worked for the Salinas City Elementary School District at Lincoln Elementary as Head Custodian retiring after 28 years of service in December 1998.

He spent his retirement years traveling, spending time outdoors, riding his bike along the Monterey coast. He was passionate about keeping his yard and vehicles in pristine condition. Even his surrounding neighbors knew him by how he cared for his property – it reflected his character: diligent, respectful, and pride in what he had. He was an active member of his church, Connect Church since 1969 (formerly named Templo Rosa de Saron). He enjoyed playing the piano at his church for many years and at home for personal enjoyment. He also loved spending time with his immediate family. He was known by his family for taking naps, requesting massages, and young grandkids walking on his back. He had a gift for humor. He was always known for his quick wit and never missed a chance to make others laugh.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carmen Amaya, and his beloved children: Albert Amaya (Elda), Claudette Fernandez (Alfredo), Bernie Amaya (Tracy), Ruth Sanchez (Enrique), and Rebekah Silva (Garrett). Also survived by his siblings Cruz Cardona of Earlimart, CA, Jose Amaya of Los Angeles, CA, John Amaya Jr., Esther Cisneros both of Visalia, CA and Angie Morfin of Waxhaw, NC.

He was a loving and faithful husband to the late Lydia Ochoa Amaya, with whom he shared the blessing of raising Albert, Claudette, and Bernie. Later, God brought Carmen into his life, and together they were blessed with two daughters, Ruth and Rebekah. He was richly blessed with 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He cherished his family deeply and lived a life rooted in love, faith, and devotion.

He was called to glory, where he joined his parents Juan and Angela Amaya, and siblings Federico Amaya, Paula Amaya, Noemi Gutierrez, Lydia Amaya, and Seferino Amaya. Grandchildren Albert Jason Amaya, and Michelle Ann Amaya, great-grandchildren Emmanuelle Castaneda, and Isaiah Ventura along with the grandchildren who were called home to the Lord before birth.

Memorial services will be held at Connect Church, 826 N. Sanborn Road, Salinas 93905 on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. followed by burial at Garden of Memories Memorial Park, 768 Abbott Street, Salinas, CA 93901 at noon. A reception to follow at Compass Church Gymnasium, 830 Padre Drive, Salinas, CA 93901.