Darren Bernaix

Darren’s personality was larger than life and in many ways taught us how to live and laugh through the good times and the bad. A great person, a true patriot, a good friend, and a kind heart. I truly appreciated my friendship with him and his beautiful wife, Michelle. I do wish we lived closer over the years to allow more time together but we would all have likely gotten into some kind of trouble anyway judging from our conversations and hysterical laughter! Such a fun, genuine, awesome couple, and amazing family. Sending love and lifting prayers for all of you during this time. Michelle, I will always be here for you if you ever need someone. Knowing Darren since high school track days and throughout military service to now has truly been an honor and his moving on without us leaves an empty space in our hearts but a true friend is never truly gone. Their spirit lives on in the memories of those who loved them. And a great friend is something to be cherished, whether they remain by our sides in this life or wait for us in the next. So Godspeed brother. Saddened by your parting and missing you already but will see you again on the flip side. Love and hugs to all.

I am so sorry to hear about the sudden loss of Darren. He was such a wonderful man and inspiration. I was so fortunate to know, work with, and learn from him. I’ll miss our times talking about the Patriots and his adventures serving our country. You’ll be dearly missed Darren

In loving memory of a great Airman, husband, and father. Rest in Peace Darren.

I’m so sorry to hear this terrible news. You will always be remembered. Fly safe.

Darren, you are leaving a hole in our hearts. Darrin and I both are grateful that we have remained close all years.
Michelle, you are tough and this will rock you. Please do not hesitate to reach out. We have known each other most of our lives.
For both Daddys Girls: we love you and he was so proud of both of you!
Charlie, Maria, and Matt- we are here for you.
Darrin and Crista

It so sad to hear of the loss of Darren. He was one nice fellow, great analyst and devoted family man. He will be missed in a powerful way. All of my sympathies and prayers go out to Michelle and the family.

I struggle to find the right words for Darren’s passing. Like many of us, I’m still in shock. He fought a long and difficult battle with his health over the past few years, and just as he seemed to be turning the corner—finally able to enjoy the retirement he had so greatly earned and spending precious, well-deserved time with Michelle, his children, and his beautiful granddaughters—his loss feels especially heartbreaking.

I remember the first time I saw Darren—“Durwood” to many of us—on Baker Flight in the late ’80s. Tall, handsome, a little lanky, with those unmistakable rosy-red cheeks. I can still picture him walking past our section after joking around with Lee and Doc, his cheeks getting redder by the second. It was both adorable and hilarious. What stood out most, though, was that he could dish it right back—quick-witted, sharp, and always ready with just the right amount of sarcasm.

A few months later, Michelle (Ann) joined our wonderfully wacky flight, and those two just clicked. Wildly in love and a little bit crazy in the best possible way—that’s how the story of Darren and Michelle began. We may have been skeptical at first (two strong Type A personalities can make for fireworks!), but over the years it became clear they were truly meant for each other. Together they built incredible careers, traveled the world, loved deeply, and created a beautiful family. They raised two amazing daughters and were blessed with two precious granddaughters who brought them so much joy.

There was something special about that Chicksands assignment for all of us on Baker Flight. I’m not sure why so many different personalities and backgrounds blended so seamlessly—but they did. We worked hard, played hard, and walked through life’s milestones together. We became more than coworkers; we became family. And through the years, that bond has never faded.

Our hearts, prayers, and deepest love are with Michelle, Nicole, and Alyssa.

Rest in peace, Darren. You will always be remembered, and you will be deeply missed.

I ran into your Dad today at Saint Elizabeth fish fry. I can remember playing in your back yard. Rest in peace my friend.