Kristin (Asen) Berendt
Kristin (Asen) Berendt, age 61, of Fond du Lac, passed away peacefully in the loving arms of her children on July 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer — a battle that never defined her. She lived with fierce compassion. She was radiant, kind-hearted, and free. Most importantly, she loved so deeply that it shaped the lives of everyone who surrounded her.
Kristin was truly the best person and mother in the entire world. Anyone who knew her, even for a moment, knew they were safe, seen, and loved. No one ever went hungry, cold, or sad in her presence. She gave warmth freely, with no expectation but a smile in return.
Born on August 30, 1963, to Betty and Ronald Asen, Kristin grew up in a big, tightly bonded family. She is preceded in death by her beloved mother and her big brother Kit.
Kristin’s life was defined by resilience. She earned her Bachelor in Science in Nursing while pregnant — a testament to her grit, brilliance, and unwavering love for her children. Her nursing career began with St. Agnes Hospice, continued through years of dedicated service on the medical-surgical floor at St. Agnes Hospital, and concluded at Taycheedah Correctional Institution. She was a nurse by nature in every sense of the word: affectionate, intuitive, deeply respected, and never too busy to make a patient feel like family. She was a healer, a listener, a light. Her patients always had clean rooms, kind hands, and her soothing presence. Out of numerous nominations, she received two DAISY Awards, and was honored with a Lifesaving & Valor Award.
She lived life like there was no tomorrow. Vibrant, passionate, free-spirited, and completely devoted to her children and grandchildren. She was the heartbeat of her family. Kristin adored the ocean, music and live bands, hot summer days, fishing on the pier, gardening, painting, and all things creative — an extraordinarily talented artist who poured her soul into every piece. She found so much joy in giving, whether it was snacks, gifts, or laughter. Her greatest joy was time spent with her family.
Kristin is survived by her three children — Leah, Isaac (Courtney), and Mersaydee, who were her entire world, her beautiful grandchildren, Braelyn, Dylan, and Emerie; and her step grandchildren, Carter and Adelynn. She also leaves behind her long term significant other of 18 years, David, with whom she shared meaningful chapters full of love and memories. She is also survived by her nine remaining siblings and their families — Candy (Dennis), Kym (Cindy), Kelley (Tom), Kevin (Laura), Kari (Dan), Korey (Patti), Keith (Paula), Kassie (Ray), Kat (Steve), goddaughter Casey — and a wide circle of friends, coworkers, and former patients whose lives she touched with her nurturing soul.
Kristin didn’t just live life — she loved it. And she made everyone lucky enough to know her love it a little more, too. She was laughter, color, music, and love. She lived boldly, gave endlessly,
and left behind a legacy that will live on in every brushstroke, every warm memory, and every heart she ever held.
Visitation will take place from 1:00 PM to 3:45 PM on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Zacherl Funeral Home, 875 E Division St, in Fond du Lac. A service will follow the visitation at 4:00 PM.