Melvin Berner

Melvin F. Berner, 84 passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026 at the Good Samaritan Society, Manson.

Funeral services will be 10:30 am Thursday, April 30, 2026 at SPIRIT OF HOPE CHURCH, Rockwell City. Burial will follow in Rosehill Cemetery. A visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 pm Wednesday at Laufersweiler's Palmer-Swank Funeral Home.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Berner; children, Debbie (Chris) Judas, David Berner, Marsha Berner, and Mike (Kandi) Berner; grandchildren Shannon (Justin) Grossnickle, Brandon (Marietta) Judas, and Tucker Berner; great-grandchildren Max and Corbin Grossnickle; brother-in-law LeRoy Bailey; nieces, nephews, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Ella (Voss) Berner and sister, Eleanora (Berner) Bailey.

Melvin Frank Berner was born February, 21, 1942 in Fort Dodge. He graduated from Rockwell City High School in 1960. On April 9, 1961 he married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Anderson. The couple farmed the same homestead that has been in the family for 153 years. Melvin was a lifelong member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council and other church committees. He was also a member of the Rockwell City school board and a township trustee. Melvin and Margaret were active in the community; belonging to the neighborhood card club, snowmobile club, and "old car" club. They enjoyed boating and attending their children and grandchildren's activities.

Melvin especially enjoyed spending time with his cousin, Myron, who was more like a brother to him. They both had the same little grin, making you wonder what they were up to. He was also an avid Euchre player, typically following "Piper" rules at the local elevator. Melvin was an accomplished self-taught welder and often worked to fix or fabricate equipment for the farm and neighbors. There wasn't anything he couldn't fix and taught his kids to do it right the first time. He always had a smile on his face and whenever you had a conversation with him, you always ended up feeling better. He was born to be a farmer. He loved it and was happiest in the seat of his combine.

Memorials may be left to the family's discretion.