Leota Berndt

Leota Dorothy Berndt, age 98, of Merrill, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 9, 2020 at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill.  She was born on December 10, 1921 to the late Evert O. and Julia M. (Sikir) Culver in the town of Pine River.  Leota attended school in Merrill.  She met the love of her life and best friend, Martin Otto Berndt, and the two lovingly exchanged marriage vows on December 6, 1941 in Park Falls, WI.  Sadly, he preceded her in death on December 14, 1973.

Leota was employed at the Stokely USA bean factory in Merrill for over 28 years.  She then stayed home to care for her children and their home.  Leota had a green thumb and would grow massive flower gardens and vegetable gardens.  She loved flowers.  Leota would spend a lot of time in her gardens, caring for the flowers and vegetables and enjoying nature.  She especially looked forward to seeing the birds at her feeders and the deer wander through her yard.  Leota also liked to crochet and reading her favorite Danielle Steele book.  She would look forward to seeing family at gatherings during the holidays.  Leota was a strong-minded woman that had a giving soul and a servant’s heart.   She was a member at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill.  Leota will be sadly missed, but in the hearts and minds of her loved ones forever.

Leota is survived by her children: Bonnie Pfotenhaur, Gloria Kottman, both of Merrill, Faye Stevenson of Minocqua, Linda (LaVon) Anderson of Myton, UT and Evert (Cindy) Berndt of Franklin, WI, 19 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and 9 great great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her parents, husband: Martin Otto Berndt and brothers: LaVern and Ernest Culver.

A funeral service for Leota will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at 11:30am at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill.  Rev. Lucas Williams will officiate.  Visitation will be held from 10:30am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.  The service will be recorded and posted with her obituary on our website.  Burial will immediately follow the service in the St. Paul’s Cemetery in the town of Corning.

Social distancing and masks will be required in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Leota’s name are encouraged and may be directed to the Food for Kids program at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.