Pauline "Polly" Ann Berndt

Pauline “Polly” Ann Berndt, age 75, of Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, surrounded by her family. Polly was born in Moorhead, Minnesota, to Harold and Arlene Erickson.

Polly graduated in 1969 from Moorhead High School. Polly worked at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for two years, and she also worked at Quality Bakery in Moorhead. Polly’s greatest love story began at Bud’s Roller Rink in Moorhead, where she met Richard. Their relationship grew into a marriage that spanned decades. Together they settled in Pelican Rapids in 1977, where they raised their two sons, John and Joe, on the family farm. Polly dedicated many years of her career to working for NASDA, where she served as a supervisor enumerator for 30+ years. She took great pride in her work and retired in 2016. Retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter, as she lovingly devoted herself to caring for her husband, Richard. Polly had a big heart and found her greatest purpose in caring for those she loved.

She built a beautiful life with her beloved husband, Richard. Together they shared countless adventures—fishing trips to Canada, endless board games and card nights, days at the lake, and travels near and far. Polly and Richard were married on June 21, 1969, and celebrated 57 years of marriage. Polly looked forward to deer hunting every year; it was a tradition. Richard joined her in the deer stand annually, a ritual they enjoyed side by side. Above all else, Polly’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She loved watching her children and grandchildren grow, cheering them on at sporting events, celebrating milestones, and creating memories that will be treasured forever. She was overjoyed to become a great grandma. She had looked forward to it for years, and the joy it brought her was immeasurable. And in that same spirit of excitement and adventure, she was eagerly anticipating an upcoming cruise to Alaska with her siblings.

Polly is survived by her loving husband, Richard Berndt; her son, Joe (Heather) Berndt; grandchildren, Cody Berndt, Taylor Berndt (Andrew) and Jax Peterson; great-granddaughter, Maia; siblings, Sandy, Greg, Eric, Karen, and Kristi; along with numerous extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her son, John Berndt; and her parents, Harold and Arlene.

Polly’s family finds comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on through the many lives she touched.

Blessed be the memory of Pauline “Polly” Ann Berndt.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.