"I met Dan in college through our church. Even as a college student he struck me as someone of great depth and maturity. I admired his wisdom and faith. And I'll never forget the time we were out one time and I mentioned that I didn't know how to drive a stick shift-on our way home, he pulled into our church parking lot and gave me a lesson. (good thing because my parents got me a stick shift car a few weeks later!). I'm so glad he became a pastor-he was so well suited for the task. I'm praying for your family! "
In loving memory of
Daniel Lee Berkland
August 29, 1969 - July 29, 2021
Pastor Daniel Lee Berkland, 51, of Rochester, passed away peacefully at his home on July 29, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Dan was born August 29, 1969 in Sandwich, IL to Ronald and Sharon (Larson) Berkland. After graduating high school, Dan obtained his Bachelors of Education and then a Masters of Divinity from Bethel Theological Seminary in June 2000. Dan married Bridget Konop and they have two beautiful children, Zoe, 15 and Ezra, 13. Dan served as the Pastor of Oasis Church for 18 years.
In November 2017, Dan was diagnosed with stage IV melanoma. In the midst of his battle with cancer, Dan decided to live life to the fullest. Despite Dan's health issues, he was a determined pastor that led his church family to the very end. Dan was a devoted father, who was actively engaged in his children's sports and activities. He enjoyed coaching his son Ezra in baseball and making weekly Oasis video updates with Zoe.
Dan marveled in the beauty of God's creation as he camped and fished at his yearly Boundary Waters trip. Dan loved golfing and he had a strong appreciation for music. He played the bass in the worship band at church. Dan was brave, loving and lived a purpose-driven life dedicated to pastoring and helping others. He was devoted to his wife, children, family, friends and his Oasis church family.
Dan is survived by his loving wife, Bridget; children, Zoe and Ezra; parents, Ronald and Sharon Berkland; siblings, Brad Berkland, Susan Berkland, Ginger (Eric) Vogt; mother-in-law, Karen Heyduk and a host of other family and friends.
Dan and his family are grateful to God for His faithfulness and strength during his battle with cancer. In addition, thank you to family, friends, Mayo Clinic colleagues and Oasis Church for your care and support. Lastly, the family is extremely grateful for Mayo Clinic's staff who provided excellent and compassionate care.
A celebration of Dan's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 21, 2021 at Christ Community Church, 4400 55th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 20, 2021 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the Christ Community Church. The service will be live streamed at https://youtu.be/bxPszPN7UqY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Oasis Church, 3819 18th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Berkland family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"I met Dan coaching baseball in RYBA and then working with him on the RYBA Board for a time. Dan was one of the strongest people I know. He was unwavering in his desire to make things around him better and to see the positive in everything. I will always remember him as a person I want to be more like in my life. I am so sorry for your loss and wish you peace in this time."
"Dan was our pastor and my boss for a few years way back when. We were honored to have Dan baptize our daughter too. He was a wonderful human being. He always made time for the small but important moments of life. He loved to laugh! Much love to the Oasis family and especially to the Berkland family. It may have been awhile since last we met, but Dan lives on in our memories as a caring, generous soul, full of authentic love for everyone he came across. "
"Dan was my pastor for 8 years. One thing I remember from those 8 years besides his love the Lord and positive attitude was walking me through and counseling me during a turbulent time in my faith. Dan truly was a man of God and cared so much for his family at home along with his church family. "
"I have known Dan for many years and had the privilege of being his professor at Bethel and mentor. Dan was a man of integrity and authenticity, a life long learner. He had a sharp mind and great sense of humor. His love of the Lord was contagious. Strength and Honor, my friend . Dr. Greg Bourgond"