Hal Berding

Hal Berding, 66, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Surf Ballroom and Museum 460 North Shore Drive, Clear Lake with Pastor Jack Vanden Heuvel officiating. Visitation will follow the service and will continue until 4 p.m. on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Michael J. Fox Foundation, Grand Central Station P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163, Rock Steady Boxing, 100 South Federal #106 Mason City, IA 50401, as well as the Clear Lake High School Boys Basketball, 125 N 20th St, Clear Lake, IA 50428.

Hal was born on June 9, 1958, in Mason City, Iowa, to Victor and Leola (Jaspers) Berding. He grew up in Sheffield, where he attended high school and developed a lifelong passion for sports. Whether playing football, basketball, or running track, Hal always gave his all—his determination, heart, and team spirit shining through in everything he did.

After high school, Hal attended North Iowa Area Community College, where he played tight end on the football team and studied in the building trades program. The skills he learned there laid the foundation for a career in carpentry, which later evolved into a leadership role as a sales executive. No matter the role, Hal approached his work with integrity, honesty, and a sincere desire to help others. His strong work ethic and warm personality left a lasting impact on those he served, especially during his fulfilling years at CLTel in Clear Lake, from which he retired just two years ago.

On May 31, 1980, Hal married the love of his life, Gerilynn Terry, in Rockwell, Iowa. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family with which they raised two children who were the pride of Hal’s heart. Through almost 45 years of marriage, Hal often said that Geri was the heart of their relationship, and he was the fun, but anyone who knew them knew how big his heart truly was. Especially in recent years, Hal lovingly cared for Geri with patience and tenderness, always knowing just what she needed and when. His devotion was quiet but steadfast, and it spoke volumes.

Time with family was always at the center of Hal’s life. He loved gathering everyone together and was especially proud to be “Grandpa” to his grandchildren. Many hours were spent around the table playing chess, cards, or board games. His patient guidance and playful spirit leaving lasting impressions on the little ones he loved so much.

Hal was happiest when his hands and heart were busy helping others. He was deeply involved in his community and church, giving generously of his time and talents. Whether serving on local committees in Clear Lake and Mason City, participating at Rolling Acres CRC, mentoring youth, supporting foster care, or simply showing up to help someone in need, Hal gave of himself without hesitation. He found joy in coaching, playing just about any sport involving a ball, or helping his son Matthew work on his home.

Hal and Geri also shared a deep love of travel. Together, they took many trips to Mexico, as well as a recent road trip across the southern U.S. while visiting family in Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina. Their shared adventures stretched back to when their children were young, with countless family vacations and road trips taken over the years. Hal and Geri raised their children with a sense of adventure, showing them the joy of exploring new places and making memories together. Every trip, whether with their kids, grandkids, or extended family, was an opportunity to connect, laugh and appreciate the journey. Hal was always thinking ahead, dreaming up the next experience they could share.

A true lover of the water, Hal found peace and joy in lake life. He especially loved boating. Spending time out on the water with family, soaking up the sun or taking a cruise. In the last few years, he and Geri fulfilled their dream of living on the water in the Ozarks. One of his greatest joys was knowing that every morning, they could open the curtains and take in the serenity of the lake.

Hal’s life was a testimony of faith, love, and service. His warm spirit, generous heart, and joyful presence will be deeply missed—but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched.

Hal is lovingly remembered by his wife, Gerilynn Berding; his children, Jennifer (Tyler) Halfpop and Matthew Berding; his grandchildren, Shepherd and Iris Halfpop; siblings, Victoria Berding, Brad Berding, Marla (Jeff) Pulkrabek and their family, Haley and Jocelyn; his mother-in-law, Dora Lee Terry; brothers and sisters-in-law, Lise (Steve) Gulick, Chris (Stacey) Terry, and Troy (Maureen) Terry; nephew, Joel (Amy) Berding, along with their children, Alex and Celia; along many other nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Hal was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Leola Berding; his sister, Renee Berding; and his father-in-law, Robert “Bob” Terry.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapels is in charge of arrangements.