Michael A. Berns

life story

Loving Husband, Proud Father and Grandfather, Great Friend

"You pile up enough tomorrows, and you'll find you've collected nothing but a lot of empty yesterdays. I don't know about you, but I'd like to make today worth remembering." - Harold Hill, "The Music Man"

About Michael

Michael Alfred Berns, age 72, of Bloomington, MN, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 1, after a long illness.

Michael was born on September 23, 1951, in Lake City, IA, to Bell & Elmer Berns, and spent his childhood on the family’s Century Farm in Lanesboro, IA. Michael was proud of his Danish heritage and cherished his rural Iowa roots his whole life, even after relocating to Minnesota in 1973. On Thanksgiving Day 1974 he was introduced by mutual friends to his future wife, Carol, with whom he shared 47 years of marriage.

Friends and family will remember Michael for his kind, patient nature and his sense of humor that made everyone feel like a friend. He had a passion for classic musicals, games, and trivia, and loved to entertain. Always a thoughtful host and meal planner, he embodied the unofficial family motto, “eat for the hunger that is yet to come.”

Michael also loved to travel, especially with his family. He rivaled Clark Griswold in his dedication to road trip planning and sightseeing, but his favorite mode of transportation was cruising. Over the years the Berns family visited all 50 states and 10 countries, including a special visit to the small Danish island of Bornholm, from which Michael’s grandfather emigrated in the 19th century. Closer to home, Michael and Carol enjoyed exploring scenic byways (and the occasional vineyard) around Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

Michael had a long and varied retail resume--including one memorable year as "Santa” on Dayton's 8th Floor--but found his most rewarding work in helping others. He spent the last 27 years of his career with School District 287’s VECTOR program and Waivered Services, teaching independent living skills to young adults with special needs and connecting them with the community. The students and families he worked with brought him great joy and the satisfaction of accomplishment. In retirement Michael found happiness in spending more time with family and friends, and was positively tickled to become a grandpa.

Michael is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter Sarah (Travis Anderson); son Andrew (Nicole); and grandson, Sullivan. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John.

In accordance with Michael's wishes, friends and family are invited to join the Berns family at home to share memories and celebrate his life in lieu of a formal ceremony: Sunday, November 19, from 1-4 p.m. at 9925 Little Rd in Bloomington.

memorial service

Celebration of Life Open House

November 19, 2023

In accordance with Michael's wishes, friends and family are invited to join the Berns family at home to share memories and celebrate his life in lieu of a formal ceremony.

Sunday, November 19

Open House from 1-4:00 p.m.

9925 Little Road, Bloomington