Vincent John Berend
Vincent John Berend - Vince / Grandpa-at-the-farm / Grampy - lived a full life 94 years and died the morning of 2 October 2024 in Grants, NM. He was born 20 April 1930 in Spearville, KS to Charles and Helen (Fox) Berend. He grew up on a farm near Spearville where he lived until he joined the army in 1952. He served in Korea as an MP.
In 1963 Vince was a gas station attendant in Dodge City, KS when Anna Giesbrecht pulled up to the pump. Although Vince was known for his honesty, one of his lapses in judgement was lying to Anna about his age. While dating, his true age was accidentally revealed by his younger brother. Vince and Anna married 17 August 1963 in Dodge City, KS.
Anna followed Vince as he did electrical work around the country. She said they had a “6-month honeymoon” as they travelled for his work. The couple settled in Hutchinson, KS and later moved to a farm just outside town. They moved their family to a farm in Pretty Prairie, KS after the flood in 1973. He raised livestock and continued working as an electrician until his retirement. After retirement he continued working part-time including park maintenance for Cheney Reservoir. The couple lived in Pretty Prairie until they moved to Grants, NM nearly 25 years ago to be nearer to their children and grandchildren.
Vince was a quiet person, loyal, kind, and hard working. He was a devout Catholic his entire life. He is survived by his son Shawn and daughter Angela Lu; grandchildren Kaleb Berend, Kaycee Ranck, and Levi Lu; great-grandchildren Keegan Lanoue, Atlas, Ripley, and Dagon Ranck; two sisters Luwyna “Lu” Reekie and Jane McKenzie. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Anna; sons Charles and Kevin; his parents and his siblings Romuald, Josephine, Clarence, Eileen, Charles, and Elfrieda.
Rosary and mass will be held 20 November 2024 10:00 AM at St Teresa Catholic church at 213 Smith St, Grants, NM. A graveside service and interment of remains will be held at the St. Agnes cemetery near Castleton, KS in Summer 2025.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be sent in memory of Vincent Berend to the Cibola Senior Center Meals on Wheels program at 550 Jurassic Ct, Grants, NM 87020.