Erna Emma (Kregar) Bernthal, 94, Lincoln, widow of Rev. E.J. Bernthal, died Thursday (5-8-08). Born Offerle, Kansas (4-17-1914) to Gottlieb Michael and Hulda Louise Teresa (Kurth) Kregar. Taught school prior to her marriage to E. J. on August 22, 1939 in Offerle, KS. Moved as newlyweds to Sheridan, Wyoming (1939-1949), then to Wayne, Nebraska (1949-1973) and then to Twin Falls, ID (1973-1997) prior to moving to Lincoln in 1997. Homemaker involved in numerous church-related activities, including serving as church organist for many years. Member: Christ Lutheran Church.
Family members include sons, daughters-in-law: John and Marilyn Bernthal, Lincoln; Frederick Bernthal and Heather Lancaster, Washington, DC; Stuart and Katherine Bernthal, Libertyville, IL; daughters: Rebecca Bernthal, Lincoln; Christine Bernthal, Omaha; grandchildren: Bradley, Justin, Matthew and Joshua Bernthal, Kirsten Bernthal Booth; great-grandchildren: Alexis, Quinn, and Owen Bernthal, Hayden and Reese Booth; several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents, husband – Erwin, step-father – Edwin Carper, 1 brother, 2 sisters.
Funeral Service: 10:00 a.m. Wednesday (5-14-08) Christ Lutheran Church, 4325 Sumner St. Rev. Dr. Luke Schnake officiating.
2:30 p.m. burial in Greenwood Cemetery, Wayne, Nebraska. Rev. Carl R. Lilienkamp officiating.
Memorials to the Lutheran Hour Ministries, Orphan Grain Train, LCMS World Relief and Human Care or donor’s choice.
Visitation beginning 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday with family greeting friends from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Roper and Sons, 4300 ‘O’ St.