Berning, Loretta M. (Hofmann) age 98, of St. Michael, passed away Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at The Legacy of St. Michael. She was born in Clear Lake, Minnesota on September 12, 1913 the daughter of Anton and Mary (Tschacher) Hofmann. On September 9, 1940 Loretta was joined in holy marriage to Everett Berning at the Church of St. Marcus in Clear Lake. Together the couple owned and operated the Millside Tavern for 56 years. Loretta was a member of the Church of St. Michael for many years and belonged to the Christian Mothers and Catholic Aid organizations. She also made many quilts for charity and was an active volunteer for many local organizations. She is survived by her sons: John (Carmen) Berning and Ralph (Sharry) Berning; grandchildren: Cary Berning, Scott (Becky) Berning, Dennis (Sue) Berning, Tobey (Jennifer) Berning, Tamra (Jamie) Dietman and Brandon (Tierney) Berning; great-grandchildren: Paige, Lane, Kalley, Tobey Jr., Dylan, Christian, Nicholas & Braden Berning and Andrew Kari, Ashley (Anthony) Howard, Josh Kari & Hannah Kari. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Everett Berning; an infant daughter in 1951, and by 11 brothers and sisters. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 am Saturday, November 19, 2011 at the Historic Church of St. Michael.

Visitation will be held at the Historic Church of St. Michael on Friday, November 18th from 3-8:00pm and again for 1 hour prior to the funeral service on Saturday.

Interment will be in St. Michael Cemetery. The family wishes to extend a special "thank you" to the staff at The Legacy of St. Michael and Guardian Angels Hospice for the special care they provided to Loretta and her family. The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville assisted the family with arrangements. www.thepetersonchapel.com
Published in Star Tribune on November 17, 2011