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Bernard (Bernie) Wadekamper

Posted 2023-01-29 by mhenderson
Published by Today's News Herald on Jan. 29, 2023 -
Lake Havasu City, Arizona -

Bernard "Bernie" Wadekamper passed away on Jan. 5, 2023 surrounded by
those he loved. Bernie was born on May 23, 1935.

By the young age of 22, he had two accommodations from the army. Most
people know Bernie as an engine builder and funny car crew chief with Ed
McCullough. His unique personality was legendary. He was respected and
loved, and sometimes not so much. But nonetheless, he was an icon. After
drag racing, Bernie went to work for Art Whipple. Bernie was
instrumental in designing the Whipple supercharger for vehicles. Those
who knew him would say he was a genius in his own right.

Bernie and Carol moved to Lake Havasu City in 1995. He opened a machine
shop called BMC Machine for some time in Lake Havasu City. He took such
pride in machining parts and always stayed focused on what could be
accomplished. In retirement, he went on to create and build a custom FC
150 and an FC 170 Jeep. Even in his last days, he was swapping engines,
which he loved to do.

Bernie is survived by his wife, Carol, and three daughters, Kim,
Theresa, and Maryanne. He leaves behind several grandchildren and great-
grandchildren as well. As many have said, he will surely be missed.





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