With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Berndt, who left us on September 4th, 2025, at the age of 73. Son to the late Wilfred & Fern (nee Forrest) Berndt and big brother to Clayton Berndt – the “Evel Knievel Dune-Buggy Duo”. He died in the home he built, surrounded by the life and love he created.
John was the heart of our family - a devoted husband to Kathy Berndt (nee O’Neil), his constant and unwavering partner in life. A proud and protective father to his daughters, Johanna (Paul) and Lindsay (Shawn), and the deeply adored “Gaga” to his grandchildren, Sage and Quinn, who lit up his world.
A proud engineer and true country soul, John had a quiet strength that anchored us all. He was our problem-solver, our steady hand, our McGyver. But beyond his talents, it was his love, loyalty, and fierce sense of responsibility that defined him. His heart was fullest when playing volleyball and golf, enjoying card games, and sharing good food, wine, and conversation with cherished friends and his beloved extended family.
No words can fill the hole he leaves behind. His absence echoes in every corner of the home he built and in every quiet moment we now face without him. He gave us everything he had – and more – and we will spend the rest of our lives carrying his memory forward.
We miss him more than words can say.
A service to celebrate John’s life will be held at St. Andrews United Church, located at 570 Ave. de Buckingham, Gatineau, QC on Saturday, September 20th, 2025. Family and friends are welcome to gather with the family from 10:00am – 11:00am at the church, followed by a service at 11:00am with a luncheon to follow.
Donations in John’s memory can be made to Parkinson’s Canada.