Dennis Edward Berns

life story

Dennis Edward Berns

Dennis was born on July 18, 1953 to Joseph A. and Margaret M. (Bauer) Berns in Melrose, MN. He grew up on the family farm, the oldest of three brothers and three sisters. By the 10 years old, Dennis was driving the farm truck in the fields to help with the harvest. He had his first car at age 14 and after graduation, he owned a 1965 Mustang convertible and Harley Sportster.

His hankering for motorized vehicles (toys), the outdoors, and sunshine led to his collection of boats, kayaks, snowmobiles, pop-up campers, and all things landscaping related. While his collection may seem excessive, to him, it was all about sharing experiences with his family and friends and being prepared and able to lend a helping hand. In fact, he was tough competition for local landscaping, moving and vehicle detailing businesses, because he took care of that for his family and friends. To illustrate, if you were moving, had some dead tree limbs in need of removal, needed a trailer to haul something, or had to back your boat into the water, chances are, Dennis was there. When he wasn't working or helping others, you'd likely find him in his garage cranking KQ92 classic rock, out on Lake Minnetonka, or at a blazing campfire surrounded by family and friends.

He wove his love to drive into a career of 37 years with Automated Building Components (ABC) delivering kitchen cabinets throughout Minnesota and bordering cities in Wisconsin. In fact, it was fairly common when talking about an apartment complex, building or company within the Twin Cities, to hear him say, "I remember delivering their kitchen cabinets."

When his father died 28 years ago, Dennis assumed the role of family patriarch very sincerely, even giving away his youngest sister on her wedding day. Dennis was a tenacious, kind and generous spirit who worked and played equally hard, and his devotion to those he loved was unwavering. His positive attitude and beaming smile will forever be with us.

Dennis E. Berns of Plymouth, MN passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, September 17, 2021 at the age of 68. He lived his life to the fullest even with the cancer advancing for more than three years.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph & Margaret Berns. He is survived by his daughter, Rachel (Brian) Rogers, six brothers and sisters: David Berns, Doreen (Michael) Stockman, Duane (Jane) Berns, Doris (Michael) Anderson, Dale (Susan) Berns, Diane (Walter) Johnson, six nieces and nephews, and five grand nieces and nephews.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

October 24, 2021

Fish Lake Regional Park 14900 Bass Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN 55311, USA

Celebration of Life

Dennis E. Berns (July 18th, 1953 - September 17th, 2021)

Sunday, October 24th, 2021

12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Fish Lake Park Pavilion

Fish Lake Regional Park

14900 Bass Lake Road

Maple Grove, MN 55311

Per Dennis' wishes, his family is holding a celebration of life instead of a traditional funeral. In harmony with Dennis' spirit, this will not be a formal and structured ceremony. Instead, all family and friends are invited to an open-house style gathering to honor and celebrate Dennis. Spontaneous toasts, commemorative songs, photo slideshows, and story-telling will take place throughout the day. Light snacks and beverages will be provided. Guests are also welcome to bring their own personal food and (glass or can-only) beverages.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be used to honor Dennis’ favorite causes, along with several tree plantings. Because of weather and end of season, trees will be planted in the Spring of 2022. Memorial contributions can be made at the Celebration of Life.

NOTE: Although we have tried to make this celebration of life more COVID-friendly (privately rented venue, open-house style, guests can bring their own beverages and food, outdoor park setting with large, attached, outdoor patio for guests), the family completely understands and supports anyone who does not feel comfortable or safe attending.

IMPORTANT DETAILS:

* Three Rivers Park District has designated the Pavilion as a Zero-Waste Facility to lessen our impact on the environment by reducing the amount of waste generated at events. Per our rental policy, we are not allowed to serve any beverages in plastic bottles, nor are we able to consume anything in plastic bottles. Therefore, bringing your own reusable bottle for water will be very helpful.

* Modern bathrooms are conveniently attached to the Pavilion.

* The Pavilion is an enclosed, heated, and privately rented building just for those individuals attending the celebration of life. There is also a wood-burning fireplace in the Pavilion.

* A large outdoor patio area with picnic tables is attached to the back of the Pavilion.

* Admission to Fish Lake Regional Park is free, in addition to parking.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services