Richard G. Berndt, age 89, of Stevens Point, died on August 8, 2014 with his family at his side.

Richard was born February 2, 1925 to the late Emil and Lorraine (Opper) Berndt in Merrill, WI. His family moved to Wausau, WI where he grew up, attended grade school, and graduated from Wausau High School in 1941.

After high school, Richard worked for a Merrill brewery for a short time before being inducted into the U.S. Army on June 25, 1943. During his time of service, Richard received an American Theater Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Theater Service Medal, a Philippine Liberation Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal. He served 14 months in the South Pacific theatre. He was honorably discharged on March 16, 1946. He was recalled to active duty in 1951 and was again honorable discharged after a second tenure.

Richard attended Central State Teachers College, and after an extended higher education, he graduated with degrees in biology and physical education. He found a coaching position in Laona in the Northern Lakes conference before being recalled to the Army. He subsequently found a positon at P.J. Jacobs High School as a coach and physical education instructor before accepting a coaching job at Neillsville High School.

He married Esther Murat on August 21, 1948.

Richard returned to Stevens Point to join his father-in-law at Murat Insurance. He bought the business and began Berndt Murat Insurance Company. Richard committed his life to insurance sales until retiring in 1987.

Richard will be remembered for his dedication to his family and his kind heart. He was a sports enthusiast and enjoyed the spoils of competition. In his earlier years, he played competitive high school and college football, in addition to baseball. In his later years, Richard was a WIAA official in wrestling, baseball, football, and basketball. He was a member of the Wisconsin Independent Insurance Agents, a heartfelt Rotarian, and was involved with Portage County ground water preservation. Richard was a host home for may exchange students attending UWSP. His commitment to family will always be remembered, especially by his grandchildren for his interest, involvement, and attendance with their many sporting events.

Survivors include his son, Steven Berndt; daughter, Christine Berndt; granddaughters, Leah Fisner and Kaitlin Berndt; niece, Deborah (Gregory) Shekey; and many dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Esther; and brother, Harley.

A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 19, 2014 at Boston Funeral Home with Rev. Steven Olson officiating. A time of sharing memories will also be held on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until time of service. Burial will follow the service in Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorials may be made to St Joseph’s Indian School; 1301 N. Main St., Chamberlain, SD 57325. Online condolences may be made at www.bostonfuneralhome.net. Boston Funeral Home is assisting.

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