John "Jack" Bernt

John “Jack” Bernt, age 93 of Rosemount and formerly of Duluth, MN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 25, 2024.

Jack was born on October 29, 1930, in Duluth, and grew up in Superior, Wisconsin. His father was an accomplished pilot and flight instructor and managed what is now known as the Richard I.Bong Airport. Jack obtained his pilot’s license at the age of fifteen-prior to earning his driver’s license and graduated from Cathedral High School in Superior in 1949.

Following high school graduation, Jack joined the Air National Guard in Duluth, MN. He later worked for the railroad, R & O elevator company and for the Roger Bowman Company. The majority of this career was spent serving students and faculty as a Boiler Engineer with the Duluth Public School District where he was admired by many.

Jack inspired many by his strong Catholic faith and his kind and gentle demeanor. He was a quiet man of prayer and was devoted to regularly praying the rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Many people have requested Jack’s prayers through the years and many of those prayers have been answered through his intercession. Jack loved the outdoors, nature and animals of all kinds, particularly dogs. Jack proclaimed that his purpose in life was to “be kind.” He accomplished this in the way he lived his life and he will be remembered for his many kindnesses to others.

Jack was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Joan (O’Brien) Bernt; parents, Julius and Margaret; granddaughter, Jordan Bernt; and by his five siblings.

He is survived by children, Mary (Mike) Mischke and Michael (Melissa) Bernt; grandchildren, Bryan and Claudia Mischke, and Jayden Bernt; and many nieces, nephews, brother and sisters-in-law, and many other relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 9, 2024, at Church of St. Peter in Mendota Heights, with Father Steven Hoffman officiating. Interment will be held at the parish cemetery.

Livestream Link:

www.youtube.com/@churchofst.peter-mendotamn3776

Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation for one hour prior and to a reception immediately following the Mass, all at church on Friday.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.