Henry Berkeland

Henry Berkeland, age 97, of Watertown, SD, formerly of Willow Lake, SD, passed away on August 3, 2025, surrounded by family.

Henry was born on January 16, 1928, near Luverne, MN, to Anna (Aagedal) and John Birkeland. He attended country school near his home north of Luverne, and farmed with his father until Henry was drafted into the Korean War. He met his future bride, Fanny Mundhenke, at a dance in Sioux Falls and they were married November 8, 1951, five days before he left to serve with the US Army in North Korea.  Following his service, the couple moved to the farm near Willow Lake where they raised crops and livestock, including cattle, pigs, sheep and chickens. Fanny died in 1996. Henry farmed actively into his 80's before moving to Watertown in 2012. He was a devoted father, a loving spouse, and a friend to many. Henry started each morning with daily devotions and prayer, and loved sharing God's word and helping others.

Henry enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He liked to fix things, cook, and fish. He attended Lake Gospel Church of Willow Lake, and Hosanna Lutheran Church of Watertown. He also was a 70-year member of the Johnnie Fonken American Legion Post 113 of Willow Lake, a member of the Watertown VFW, and had previously served on church committees and his rural township board. Henry will be remembered for his kindness and strong faith.

A memorial service will be held on August 23, 2025 at 11am at Cornerstone Church in Watertown, SD.  A private family burial will be held later at Collins Cemetery of rural Willow Lake. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hosanna Lutheran Church, 1617 14th Ave NE, Watertown, SD 57201 for missions.

He is survived by daughters Marlys (Lyn) Thompson of West Fargo, ND, Lorna (Jim) Beukelman of Maple Grove, MN, and Linda Berkeland of Huron, SD; grandchildren Jenny (Derek) Poehls and their children Lauren and Kenley; Jayme (Gabe) Aguero and Andrew Beukelman, and several nieces and nephews. Henry was blessed with many compassionate caregivers through the VA, Prairie Lakes and Homecare Services and very special neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his five siblings.

Furness Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.