On Sunday, February 17, 2008 at 11:03 PM, Richard Bethig Berndt was taken to his heavenly home. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. Richard was born in Chicago, Illinois on December 11, 1925 to Charles Fredrick and Anna Bethig Berndt. After graduating from Lake View High School in Chicago, Illinois in 1943, he proudly served his country as an Armed Guardsman in World War II with the United States Navy on the USS John W. Troy. In 1950, Richard graduated from Florida State University and then moved to Miami, Florida. Richard was committed to the safety and well being of the people of the city of Miami by supplying all of their insurance needs for fifty-two years as a State Farm Insurance Agent in South Miami. Together, Mr. B. and his wonderful office staff over the years have provided the community with excellent service. A civic-minded citizen, Richard served on many boards and committees. He ran for State Legislature, was Past President of the South Miami Hospital Associates, was Past President of the South Miami Jr. Chamber of Commerce, he held an office in the Kendall-Perrine Kiwanis Club, was a member of the South Miami Rotary Club and was a long- standing member of the Hurricane Club. Richard swam for the U.S. Navy, Florida State University and was in the Senior State of Florida Championships, where he won many medals. Richard was a supporter and avid sports fan to all sports, whether it was the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, Florida Marlins, the University of Miami or Florida State University. He enjoyed the thrill of competition and the satisfaction of winning. He will be remembered in the hearts of all his family: his loving wife of 51 years, Margaret Anne; daughter, Laura (Jamie) Rubin; son, Rick (Janet) Berndt; daughter, Lisa (Mont) Cartwright; son, Charles (Anna) Berndt; son, Lance (Kimberly) Berndt; 14 grandchildren: Natasha, Justin, Jeremy, Caitlin, Megan, Daniel, Arielle, Anson, Tara Lyn, Jacqueline, Christina, Autumne, Amberlyn and Dakota. He is also survived by his brother, Charles (Patty) Berndt of Hollywood, many cousins from Chicago, and many other family members and friends. Richard was preceded in death in 1972 by his sister, Charlene Madden Fitzmorris. The family of Mr. B gives thanks and appreciation to his caregivers: Dr. Alfredo Dally, Sharon Lockhart, Ursula Edwards, Susan Munson, and Joy Thomas. "Jesus said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12.