MASON CITY — Mardene “Marge” Berding, 80, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, leaving behind memories of a welcoming home, years spent serving customers at North Iowa businesses and a family that always came first.
A visitation will be held Monday, October 12, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue in Mason City. A Celebration of Life will follow at 4 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to a charity of the donor’s choice in Marge’s memory.
Born May 24, 1946, in Rockwell, Iowa, Marge was the daughter of John and Laura Mulenbruch. She graduated from Rockwell-Swaledale High School in 1964 and went on to build a life distinguished by hard work, laughter and generosity.
Marge began her working years as a waitress at Gretchen’s. She and Benny later purchased the Coffee Cup in Mason City, which she managed for many years. The couple also owned the Crossroads Bar/Cafe in Manly, places where Marge’s gift for making people feel welcome found a natural home.
She subsequently worked as a buyer for Damon’s clothing and spent more than two decades at Younkers before retiring. Across her varied career, Marge made connections through her warm personality and willingness to work hard.
Away from work, Marge was happiest surrounded by family and friends at gatherings on the acreage. She enjoyed trips to Sturgis with Johnny and loved the animals that shared her home and property, especially her cats. Her loyal companion Sparky brought her particular comfort and joy.
Her grandchildren knew a visit to Grandma could come with a special treat: one of Marge’s delicious malt shakes. Those simple traditions, along with her laughter and generous spirit, became part of the memories she leaves her family.
Marge is survived by her significant other, Johnny Berding; children Brenda (Dale) Schmidtke, John (Kristi) Berding, Mike (Amanda) Berding, Danny (Elissa) Berding and Angie (Brandon) Stark; grandchildren Sara (Dustin) Berding, Samantha (Ray) Schmidtke, Jace (Kylie) Berding, Chase, Reese, Sidney, Charlie, Evelyn, Wyatt and Aubrey; and great-grandchild Dani Berding.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Laura Mulenbruch; siblings Wayne Mulenbruch, Mervin Mulenbruch, Laurel Mulenbruch and Irene Dannen; grandson Colby Schmidtke; and other family members.
Marge’s family expressed appreciation to the staff at St. Croix for the compassionate care she received during her stay at the IOOF Home, with special thanks to Keanna LaSalle for her kindness and attention.
Marge will be remembered for the doors she opened to friends and family, the meals and treats she shared, the customers she served and the lasting affection she gave those closest to her. Additional service details and the opportunity to share condolences are available through Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory.
NorthIowaToday.com publishes obituaries and remembrances for families and funeral homes free of charge.