Maxine I. Bernhardt

With heavy hearts and joyous memories, we celebrate the life of Maxine Isadora Bernhardt, affectionately known as Mac, who passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, at the age of 96, in her home at Overlook Village, Moline, Illinois.

Born on January 26, 1929, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, to James and Matilda (Martin) Kidrick, she spent her life exploring the world around her and cherishing the moments that brought her joy.

Maxine was a remarkable woman who embraced every opportunity with passion and determination. Maxine married the love of her life, Garland Bernhardt, on December 21, 1947, and together as the owners of a thriving resort and flying service, they dedicated decades to creating memorable experiences for countless families. Her work was not just a job; it was a labor of love that infused her life with purpose and joy.

An adventurer at heart, Mac had an insatiable curiosity that drove her to travel and explore. She delighted in bird watching, particularly the return of a tenacious gull each spring-a testament to her fierce loyalty to all she loved. Her interests extended to fishing, music, playing cards, and dominoes, activities that brought her closer to family and friends, all of whom treasured her vibrant spirit.

Maxine is survived by her loving husband, Garland Bernhardt; her devoted children, Keith (Glenda) Bernhardt, Karen Giles, and Lisa (Jim) Poling; grandchildren, Ian (Randi) Bernhardt, Cody (Allison) Hempel, Taylor (Lacy) Hempel, Matthew (Anna) Grund and Allison (Dan) Haskill; and great-grandchildren, Olivia, Spencer, Brayden, Evelyn, Logan, Liam, Amber (Dawson), Amy, Nova and Piper.

As her granddaughter Allison Haskell beautifully expressed, "Ninety-six years is an impressive amount of time to walk this earth, but for us loved ones, it wasn't quite long enough."

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.