Maxine Bernhardt, 96

Maxine Bernhardt

January 26, 1929 — May 9, 2025

With heavy hearts and joyous memories, we celebrate the life of Maxine Isadora Bernhardt, affectionately known as Mac by her beloved husband, who passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, at the age of 96, in her home at Overlook Village, Moline, Illinois.

Born on January 26, 1929, in Monroe County, Wisconsin, to James and Matilda (Marten) Kidrick, she spent her life exploring the world around her and cherishing the moments that brought her joy.

Maxine was a remarkable woman who embraced every opportunity with passion and determination. Maxine married the love of her life, Garland Bernhardt, on December 21, 1947. They moved from Tomah, WI, to Baudette, MN, in 1961. Together as the owner-operators of thriving resorts (Jones’ Resort, Angle Inn Lodge) and Bernhardt’s Flying Service, they dedicated decades to creating memorable experiences for countless families. Her work was not just a job; it was a labor of love that infused her life with purpose and joy. After retirement, Maxine enjoyed her beautiful home overlooking the Rainy River and was often found outside, tending to her garden or flower beds.

An adventurer at heart, Maxine had an insatiable curiosity that drove her to travel and explore. She delighted in bird watching, particularly looking forward to the return of one tenacious gull each spring, a testament to her fierce loyalty to all she loved. Her interests extended to fishing, music, cooking, and baking, as well as playing cards and dominoes, activities that brought her closer to family and friends, all of whom treasured her vibrant spirit and infectious laughter.

Maxine is survived by her loving husband of more than 77 years, Garland Bernhardt; her devoted children, Keith (Glenda) Bernhardt, Karen Giles, and Lisa (Jim) Poling; grandchildren, Ian (Randi) Bernhardt, Cody (Alison) Hempel, Taylor (Lacy) Hempel, Matthew (Anna) Grund and Allison (Dan) Haskill; and great-grandchildren, Olivia, Spencer, Brayden, Evelyn, Logan, Amber (Dawson), Amy, Liam, Nova and Piper.

As her granddaughter Allison Haskill beautifully expressed, "Ninety-six years is an impressive amount of time to walk this earth, but for us loved ones, it wasn't quite long enough."