Darrell John Berendzen

Darrell John Berendzen, 69, of Jefferson City, passed away on December 1, 2024. He was born on June 12, 1955, to the late Jake and LaVerne (Morff) Berendzen.
A proud graduate of Eugene High School, class of 1973, Darrell went on to receive an associate's degree in auto body work from Linn Technical College. On October 4, 1975, he married the love of his life, Kathy Annette Cook, and together they shared nearly 50 years of love, companionship, and family.
Darrell dedicated much of his life to his work, spending 20 years with Prost Builders and 15 years with Kozeny-Wagner Construction Company. His skills and work ethic were unmatched, and his ability to fix anything earned him the admiration of all who knew him. His friends and family often joked that Darrell was a regular "McGyver," able to make things work with his ingenuity and resourcefulness.
Outside of his professional life, Darrell was an avid lover of the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time riding around the property on his John Deere Gator. He found peace and joy in nature, and a cold drink in hand was often part of the scene. He was a man of simple pleasures and profound impact, known for his kindness, his wit, and his unwavering support for his family.
Darrell was preceded in death by his brothers, Harry, Mitch, Kenneth, and David; his sisters, Janice Belt and Nancy Whitney, his niece, Jody Klindt, and his nephew, Michael Klindt.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; his daughter, Cristin Berendzen (Mandy); his son, Kyle Berendzen (Angie); his sisters, Cathy Klindt (Freddie), Brenda Rush (John), Sheri Koestner (Todd); his grandchildren, Cayla, Lily, Corbin, and Ellie; and his great-granddaughter, Julianna.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Helias Foundation.
Friends will be received on Monday, December 9, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A Prayer Service will follow at 12:00 p.m.
Darrell's legacy of love, laughter, and ingenuity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com