Marsha Bernhardt

Marsha Kay Bernhardt, 80, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2023.  Marsha was born July 8, 1943 to Harry T and Virginia Dean (Hackathorn) Jensen in Kansas City, Missouri. While she was still a small child, the family moved to a large farm in the Missouri ozarks where Marsha spent her earliest years riding her horse, exploring the woods, fishing with her grandma, and enjoying the dogwoods. Eventually the family moved back to Kansas City where Marsha graduated from Ruskin Heights High School. After high school, she worked hard, saved her money, and bought a red and white, hard top 1957 Chevrolet that was the envy of all.  

On June 1, 1963 Marsha married Larry Bernhardt and moved to the Twin Cities where she worked in the office at Northwest Airlines. In 1968, they moved to Lakeville where Marsha stayed at home to raise their children. Because she loved the outdoors so much, she naturally instilled that same love in her children. She also loved a good prank, and many never knew she was the adult behind those church camp pranks the kids did.  For many years, Marsha was known for the delicious and unique cakes and cookies she baked and decorated for others. In 1994, the family moved to Pine Island, where she graciously opened her home to many out of town Mayo Clinic patients. In 2005, Marsha designed a beautiful country home that was built on 45 scenic acres in Hart. There she enjoyed nature, horses, her dogs and cat, growing her faith, tending her geraniums and peonies, encouraging others in healthy living practices, entertaining friends from church, but mostly being a fun grandma.   Earlier this year, she and Larry celebrated 60 years together.

Survivors include her husband Larry, their three children; Susie Monte and Heidi (Mike) Toft, both of St. Charles, and son Michael (Rebecca) Bernhardt of North Branch, seven grandchildren; Grace Monte, Andrew Toft, Alana (Derek) Flom, Avery Toft, Ella Weston, and Evelyn Bernhardt, a sister, Edith Westeröd, and two brothers, Harry Jensen and Albert (Amy) Jensen.  And many well-loved friends and family.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at Hoff Funeral Service in St. Charles with the Reverend Tim Stratton presiding.  Private family burial will follow in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery – Preston.  Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.  www.hofffuneral.com.