Arvin Henry Berding, a beloved figure in his community, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, at the age of 86 in Olathe, Kansas. Born on January 27, 1939, in Remsen, Iowa, Arvin’s life was defined by his devotion to family, faith, and the values he held dear.
After graduating high school, Arvin served in the Armed Reserves for one year before attending business college. His professional journey was diverse and dynamic—beginning with Union Pacific, transitioning into auto sales, and culminating in a successful career in real estate, where he founded Berding Realty.
Arvin had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He cherished hunting trips with his son and fishing outings with his children and grandchildren. A passionate supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, His children honored Arvin and his wife Patti with a commemorative brick at the Royals Stadium walkway, inscribed with the heartfelt message: “To Us, Royal Forever.”
A man of faith, Arvin was a proud 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.
Arvin married Bette Bainbridge on May 28, 1959, and together they had five children. After their divorce, he later married Patti (Parks Mayer) on April 25, 1992, with whom he shared many joyful years. In retirement, Arvin and Patti moved to Lake Shetek, Minnesota, where they spent peaceful days fishing and enjoying the beauty of lakeside sunrises.
He is survived by his loving children: Beth Weatherley (Larry) of Peculiar, Missouri; Alan Berding (Janet) of Olathe, Kansas; Susan Krewson (Darrell) of Katy, Texas; Jill Thompson (Dennis) of Union Star, Missouri; and Lynn Berding Cusick (Sean) of Dallas, Texas. He also leaves behind three stepchildren: Scott Mayer (Kae) of Dakota Dunes, South Dakota; Kelly Sheveland of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and Kim Curry (Jim) of Beresford, South Dakota.
Arvin’s legacy lives on through his twelve grandchildren: John Michael Pittman Jr. (Sara McDaniel), Shelby Pittman, Aaron Berding (Ashton), Andrew Berding, Luke Thompson, Gianna Cusick, David Mayer, Kyle Mayer (Kelsey), McKenna Rhoads (AJ), Riley Sheveland, Kaci Sheveland, Sam Curry, and Maggie Curry. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Alexis Berding, Autumn Berding, Ava Berding, Liam Mayer, Griffin Mayer, and Hadley Mayer.
He is also survived by his sisters Delores Full of Alton, Iowa, and Maryann Hirschman (Maylon Chartier) of Sioux City, Iowa.
Arvin was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence H. and Viola M. (Groepper) Berding; his wife, Patricia Anne Berding; his brother, Harold Berding; brother-in-law Alvin Full; his son-in-law John M. Pittman Sr.; and his grandson Paul Arvin Berding.
Arvin’s life was a tapestry woven with kindness, wisdom, and a deep love for those around him. He will be remembered not only for his devotion to family but also for the warmth and generosity he extended to friends and his community. His presence touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed.
A memorial funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 13615 West 92nd Street, Lenexa, Kansas. Visitation will start at 9:30 a.m. before the Mass at the church, with lunch to follow.
A private family burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Knights of Columbus ( https://www.kofc.org/) in Arvin’s honor.
