09/01/2026
It still doesn’t seem real, but last week we said goodbye to our friend and bandmate, Bernie Palo. Since 2007, Bernie spent half that time as a regular member of the Groove Council. He had his own energetic, funky style that lifted the performance of everyone on stage. No matter what band, jam, or guest appearance, Bernie was a musician whose playing just naturally pushed the rest of the players to raise it to another level. Some songs will forever be his. And then there was his sense of humor. Many of his one-liners and “Berrnie-isms” have been adopted by others and still get a chuckle year after year. Always prepared, Bernie was the absolute professional. But as focused as he was on the music side of things, there was never a question that his priority and dedication remained with his wife Lisa and daughter Bree. Through all the conversations over the years, whenever he mentioned his daughter there was always a notable glow in his eyes and added warmth to his smile.
It was just a couple months ago that he dropped out again to ease up his schedule. We just took for granted that he’d eventually do another gig or two. We’ll miss playing with him. We’ll miss his humor and his friendship. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Lisa, Bree, and all of Bernie’s family.
Please continue to send prayers of comfort to his family & loved ones.
