Bernie Krane, a longtime Bellevue Police volunteer, passed away unexpectedly this past weekend. Bernie was one of the first Bellevue Police volunteers, joining the program in July 1995 to help open the new Crossroads Community Station. He worked at the front desk there until June 2006, when he helped Officer Tory Mangione open and then staff the new Transit Center substation. He remained at the Transit Center until returning to the Crossroads substation in July 2010, where he worked until his death last weekend. In total, Bernie volunteered almost 4,800 during his tenure with the police department. He was instrumental in planning and organizing the department’s National Night Out event in Crossroads since 2010, helping to make it one of the Department’s annual flagship community outreach events.
In 2007, Bernie was honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award. This award
originated with President George H.W. Bush’s “Points of Light” volunteer service program that honors individuals who serve their communities throughout the country. Bernie was presented this award personally by President George W. Bush during a stop the President made in Seattle that summer.
Bernie loved serving his community and was a passionate supporter and advocate for the Bellevue Police Department. The Kranes lived in Bellevue from the mid-1970’s until they moved to Kirkland in 2004, but even after moving Bernie remained a dedicated Bellevue Police volunteer. He was a fixture at the Crossroads Substation desk every Wednesday, looking forward to welcoming and helping everyone who came into the station during his shift.
Bernie is survived by his wife of 53 years, Paige, and their daughter Danielle.
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