Larry Lee Berndt

Larry Lee Berndt, a devoted family man with a strong work ethic and an adventurous spirit, passed away on June 23 with his family by his side. He was born on September 6, 1941, in Roseland, Nebraska, to Elmer and Mildred Junge Berndt.

Larry grew up in Roseland and graduated from Roseland High School in 1959. Seeking warmer weather, he moved to California, where he met the love of his life, Mary Louise Nelson. They married on November 23, 1963, sharing 61 wonderful years that included the births of their son, Christopher, and daughter, Cherilin.

Larry dedicated many years as an operations manager at Powerine Oil Refinery in Santa Fe Springs, California. Always willing to help others, he also obtained his real estate license, which he used to assist coworkers in buying their first homes. When the refinery temporarily closed, Larry moved his family back to Nebraska, settling just two houses away from his parents.

In Nebraska, Larry continued his refinery career as an operations manager at ADC1 in Hastings, where he formed lasting friendships that became an extension of his family. When Powerine reopened, they called on Larry, and the family eagerly returned to California’s warmer climate.

Larry continued his impressive 30-year career at Powerine until his retirement at age 65. He spent his retirement years in Whittier, California, with Mary Lou, enjoying his favorite pastimes: cheering for the Cornhuskers, cursing the Dodgers, and trying his luck at Mississippi Stud and slots at local casinos.

Though he spent most of his life in California, Nebraska always remained Larry's true home. He will be laid to rest in Hastings, Nebraska, alongside his mother and father.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Elmer Berndt; mother and father in-law, Hazel and Linnie Nelson; and brother-in-law, Garl Worthington. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Louise; son, Christopher; daughter, Cherilin; sister, Karen Worthington; brother, Steve, and sister-in-law, Lorie Berndt; brother, Bradley and sister-in-law Ann Berndt; nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of friends and family who will cherish his memory.

Viewing and service will be held on Wednesday, July, 16 from 2-5p at White Emerson Mortuary in Whittier, CA, followed by burial service on Wednesday, July 23 at 11a at Livingston Butler Volland Mortuary in Hastings, Nebraska.