Bernita Clarissa Lonergan (Hendrickson), 99, of Austin, Minnesota, died Monday, April 18, 2016, at the St. Mark’s Lutheran Home.

She was born Nov. 6, 1916, to Albert and Ida (Vangen) Hendrickson in Allamakee County, Iowa. She was the oldest of two children.

Bernita was married on Nov. 17, 1938, to William E. Lonergan in Osage, Iowa. After they were married, they moved to Mason City, Iowa, and farmed there until 1950 when they moved to the Austin area, where they farmed until retirement.

Bernita was raised in the city, but loved country life. She loved animals (chickens), gardening — she was a member of the Austin Town and Country Garden club for many years. She held offices in the garden club, her church and the Neighborhood Club. She was active in her church. Her hobbies were playing cards and growing/tending flowers.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, William Jr. and Meri Jo Lonergan, Austin; daughter Darlene Schottler, Austin; 10 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Dora Lonergan Weiland; brother-in-law Mahlon Lonergan, Rose Creek; nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, William E. Lonergan Sr.; brother Edward Hendrickson; and great-grandson William Lawrence Schottler.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 22, 2016, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Lyle, Minnesota, with the Rev. Karl Dalager officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com. Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.