‘RHOC’ Alum Elizabeth Lyn Vargas Remembers Ex-Husband Bernt’s Legacy Following His Death (Exclusive)

Real Housewives of Orange County alum Elizabeth Lyn Vargas is opening up about the death of ex-husband Bernt Bodal, who died Wednesday, February 18, at age 72 from pancreatic cancer.

The TV personality, 50, says she is thankful for her ex’s current wife, Michelle Fox, who was there through his “battle with cancer and the complications that followed.”

“Bernt was blessed in recent years to have Michelle by his side throughout his fight. For that, I am deeply grateful,” Vargas exclusively tells Star.

“Despite our differences over time, Bernt and I continued to speak regularly and with kindness,” she continues. “We both understood that our 20+ years together mattered. That kind of history is never erased.”

Vargas explains that Bodal’s family has “always meant the world to me, regardless of how they may have felt about me personally,” adding: “Family was important to Bernt.”

“While relationships evolve, legacy does not,” Vargas says. “Bernt was extraordinarily talented. He flew airplanes, helicopters, and stunt planes. He played guitar. He was a sharp businessman and a loyal friend. To his colleagues and those who knew him well, he showed up — even during seasons when he himself was struggling. Some saw him as selfish; I witnessed many moments of generosity and selflessness that most people never saw.”

“Many will remember his appearance on the television series Undercover Boss, where he gave to families in need,” Vargas notes. “What people may not know is that he also supported numerous charities privately, without seeking recognition. Giving was something he did because he wanted to, not because he had to.”

Vargas adds that she is thankful to everyone who has reached out following his death, saying, “His spirit and legacy will live on through the lives he touched.”

Vargas married the former CEO of the Seattle-based American Seafoods in 2000. However, the two reportedly split in 2017 before they finalized their divorce in July 2020. Though he never appeared on an episode of RHOC, Vargas had spoken about him on the show.

Bodal is survived by his wife, children, mother, extended loved ones and Vargas.