<p>Christian J. "Chris" Berner Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on January 8, 2025, in Clinton, Iowa, at the age of 76. Born on June 17, 1948, in rural Clinton County, Iowa, Chris was the beloved son of Christian Julius and Flora Clara (Paarman) Berner Sr.</p><p><br></p><p>Chris grew up on the family farm in Clinton County and graduated from Lost Nation High School in 1968. He found his lifelong partner in Barbara H. DeLarm, marrying her on February 13, 1971, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. Together, they built a loving family with their three children, Todd, Anita, and Eric, who brought joy and pride to Chris's life.</p><p><br></p><p>For 32 years, Chris was a dedicated employee at International Paper Company in Clinton, where he spent 25 years as a maintenance person. His commitment to safety and excellence was evident in the training certificates he earned in Hazardous Materials, Asbestos, and Commercial Firefighting. Chris's work ethic and reliability made him a respected figure among his colleagues.</p><p><br></p><p>Chris's involvement in his community was extensive and impactful. He was a member of the Friends of Maquoketa Caves and Fulton Community Church. He was a former member of the Maquoketa Lions Club, Charlotte Fire Department, and over 25 years with the City of Clinton and Clinton County Sheriff's Department Reserves. His dedication to public service also included holding a Water and Wastewater Treatment License for the City of Charlotte for over 15 years.</p><p><br></p><p>A man of many interests, Chris was known for his love of food and his joy in sharing meals with family and friends. He was also an avid shopper, always seeking the perfect gifts to show his love and care for his family. In his earlier years living in the country, Chris took pleasure in raising turkeys, chickens, and tending to his garden, activities that reflected his love for nature and the outdoors.</p><p><br></p><p>Chris's memory will be lovingly honored by his wife, Barbara Berner of Clinton, IA; his children, Todd (Mary) Berner of Lost Nation, IA, Anita Schnoor of Camanche, IA, and Eric (Kathi) Berner of Lost Nation, IA; his cherished grandchildren, Jordan, Joseph, Gavin, and Camryn; and his sisters, Flora Fowler of Maquoketa, IA, and Milly (Leon) Oberman of Elvira, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother William "Bill" Berner, and his sister Lily Pitts.</p><p><br></p><p>A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, January 13, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Lost Nation, IA, Cemetery, at a later date.</p><p><br></p><p>In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or MercyOne Hospice of Clinton.</p><p><br></p><p>Online condolences may be left for the family at www.CarsonAndSon.com.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>
June 17, 1948 - January 8, 202506/17/194801/08/2025
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Christian Julius "Chris" Berner
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