Kurt Karl (Haas) Berendt

life story

A loving father and amazing cook

He was an avid cook and took great pride in making sure everyone was well fed—and by “well fed,” he meant there better be enough food for everyone to go back for seconds… and thirds! He was always ready to try new recipes and explore different types of food, never afraid to experiment in the kitchen. Sharing a meal was one of the ways Kurt showed his love, brought everyone together, and made sure nobody left the table hungry

Kurt’s generosity, kindness, love, and unwavering dedication to his family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Kurt Karl (Haas) BERENDT

Born 1945 in Vienna, Austria. Passed away 8-5-2026, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Kurt quietly fought prostate cancer for over 15 years, finally succumbing to heart and kidney failure.

Kurt is survived by his wife of 51 years, Mary Jo Koehler; son Robert T. Berendt, his wife Viktoria, and their children Henry and Alexander; and son, Nicholas J. Berendt and his wife, Brittany; sisters Marie (Joe Speltz), Ann (Mike Deasey), and Jane (Joel Kozlak); and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents, Robert and Patricia Berendt.

Kurt was raised in St. Paul, MN, and graduated from Wilson High School (1963); Macalester College (1967) and with a master’s degree from Loyola University of Chicago (1973).

Kurt taught high school English in Laguna Beach, CA and in Chicago, IL. Upon returning to Minnesota he began a career in sales. He and his wife ultimately started their own internet business specializing in custom industrial entrance mats. His company, Ronick, Inc. just completed 30 years in business and is now led by his son, Nick.

Family was Kurt’s greatest priority, and their shared travels were his favorite memories. They made lifelong memories during cross- country road trips, cruises, and annual summers on Madeline Island. He enjoyed cooking and watching the latest cooking shows on TV. Kurt was happiest, though, when he was selling or engaged in fixing/remodeling anything.

Kurt was a kindhearted and loving person who was always ready to share a good joke or story. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

August 27, 2026

Holiday Inn Bloomington W Msp Airport Area by IHG 5120 American Blvd W, Bloomington, MN 55437, USA

Kurt’s friends and family are invited to join us in celebrating his life. Rather than focusing only on the sadness of his passing, we hope this gathering can be a time to share memories, stories, laughter, and the moments that made Kurt so special to all of us.

Please come, enjoy a snack and a drink, and spend some time together in Kurt’s memory. Kurt always had a way of making people feel comfortable and welcome. He wanted everyone around him to relax, enjoy themselves, and feel like they were part of the family.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services