MATTHEW K BERNDT

MATTHEW K. BERNDT, of Granville, Mass., passed away suddenly on August 30, 2026. He was 62 years old.  Matthew is survived by his loving wife, friend, and partner of 41 years, Avola (Brown) Berndt, two sons, Chadwick Berndt and his wife Jessica, of Belchertown, MA, Adrian Berndt and his wife Nicole, of Granville, MA, and “adopted son,” Timothy Driscoll and his wife Ashley, of Holly Ridge, NC. He is also survived by two brothers, David Berndt and his wife Denise, of Westfield, MA, John Berndt and his wife Colleen, of Idaho and Granville, MA, respectively, a sister, Pamela Kellam and her husband Joseph, of Huntington, MA, nine nieces and nephews, seven grandchildren, and his beloved Labradors, Sandy and Kayle.  Matthew was predeceased by his parents, David and Kendra Berndt of Montgomery, MA, and his brother, Peter Berndt.

Matthew was an avid outdoorsman who loved hiking, snowboarding, waterskiing, sailing, and canoeing.  Whether it was trekking the trails he created on the mountain behind his home or speeding across the water on trick skis behind a boat, Matt was happiest when he was outside, in nature, and having fun.  Matt loved a good adventure, and he shared many with Avola and the boys when they were young.  He was a farm boy at heart, growing up in 4H where he met Avola, and together with her eventually raised the herd of grass-fed beef cows that dot the pastures behind their home today.  That venture meant countless hours clearing fields, haying and bailing, on his John Deere, tasks that he embraced with pleasure and pride.

Also a skilled carpenter and jack-of-all-trades, Matthew built a successful construction business in the local area and was known for his creative ingenuity and imaginative problem-solving.  Never one to say something couldn’t be done, Matthew loved a good challenge and often succeeded with projects where others might just scratch their heads.  In his later years, Matthew worked alongside his son in Chad’s own construction and remodeling business, as well as improving and maintaining the family farm and several rental properties. Matt was never without a few ongoing projects.

More than anything else, Matt loved his family.  His fun-loving nature and wild-child spirit will be missed by many but will live on in the hearts and memories of all who loved him.

There will be no services or calling hours at this time, but Matt’s family will celebrate his life at a later date.    

Westfield – Avalon Funeral Home, 4 Princeton St, Westfield, MA 01085 has been entrusted with arrangements.  To express condolences to the family, share memories, or photos , please visit  Matthew's memorial page at www.westfieldfuneralhome.com

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