Leon Henry Berndt, Sr.

Leon H. Berndt, Sr., 90, of Fleetwood, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 8, 2018 in the Berks Heim Nursing Home.  Born June 27, 1927 in Oley, Leon was a son of the late William and Blanche (Rathje) Berndt.  He was the loving husband of Louisa Y. (Knauer) Berndt, and they joyfully celebrated their 50th Anniversary last year. 

Leon enjoyed being a farmer nearly all of his life, right up to his retirement in 1985.  He then worked as a machinist at Houck’s Machine Shop, last working in 2002.

Leon loved his grandchildren first, but also enjoyed hunting, the Phillies, and spending time with his buddies at the Patriotic Order Sons of America Lodge in Oley. He was a huge racing fan, cheering on his favorites:  NASCAR’s Dale Earnhardt, and Kenny Brightbill at the Reading Fairgrounds.

In addition to his wife, Leon is survived by his five children:  Kathryn Gebhard, wife of David of Reading; Barbara, widow of Gregory Kaufman of Oley;  Robin, wife of Geno Hruz of Fleetwood; Jessie Wagner of Fleetwood; and Leon Berndt, Jr., husband of Sandra of Barto.  Also surviving are his pride and joy:  10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren who will dearly miss him.

Leon was predeceased by his brother Rea, and sisters Leona Heffner and Anna Himmelreich. 

A viewing will be held Friday, January 12, 2018 from 9:30-11am in the Stitzel Family Funeral Home, 423 Main Street, Oley, PA, followed by a service in the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Berks County Memorial Gardens.