Sybil Malmberg Berndt is a woman whose life story reads like a vivid tapestry, woven with threads of adventure, education, and a deep love for the Nebraska Sandhills.
Born on November 8, 1925, Sybil grew up in Page, Nebraska, on a bustling farm with seven siblings. She remembers lots of animals and a cellar full of food that her mother canned- meat, vegetables, and root beer. Her mother made all of their clothing and she remembers her father’s friend was a barber and would come to the house and cut the family’s hair.
Life on the farm meant early responsibilities, and Sybil’s first job at just 12 years old was doing housework for a neighbor, earning a modest $3 a week. She and her sister carried clothes to the clothesline and brought lunch and drinks to the harvest workers—a humble beginning that would lead to a lifetime of hard work and community involvement.
A Passion for Education
Sybil’s heart has always been in teaching. She began her career in the heart of the Sandhills at Ashby-Hyannis in 1950, and from there, her journey in education took her across states and even to Hawaii for further studies. Her favorite job, without a doubt, was teaching, and she dedicated her life to educating students of all ages. From teaching Montessori to leading local 4-H clubs, Sybil’s commitment to education left a lasting impact on her communities.
Cherished Memories
Sybil’s childhood is filled with vivid memories of simpler times. On Saturday nights, her family would dress up and head to town for an outdoor silent movie, where her father would read the screen to them. The first movie she ever saw was Steamboat Round the Bend, and the experience cost just five cents. At home, Sybil and her siblings played cards, ran around outside, and enjoyed games like Red Rover and Run Sheep Run. She also remembers gathering around the radio and listening to Lux Radio Theater, Jack Benny, and Amos and Andy.
One of her happiest memories is of her mother reading to them every night—a tradition that brought the family together and sparked Sybil’s lifelong love of stories and learning.
Growing up she went to a rural school that had one teacher. They had outdoor bathrooms and a merry-go-round. They were one of the fancy schools in the area.
Sybil was a whirlwind of activity during her high school years. She played trombone in the band, sang alto in the choir, participated in the PEP and Glee clubs, and starred in school plays. She even recalls when hot lunch was introduced—thanks to government-provided fruit and the cooks’ generous portions.
Love, Lassoing, and Life Lessons
If Sybil could travel back in time, she would revisit 1955, the year she married Don Malmberg. She was teaching for the largest ranch in Nebraska and had dreams of moving to Hawaii with her friend Elaine to team-teach. But Don, who was on the school board, insisted she finish her contract, setting the stage for their lifelong partnership.
Sybil also has a mischievous side, recalling the time she and her brother Bud lassoed their mother’s chickens and ducks. Unfortunately, many of the birds didn’t survive the ordeal, and as punishment, they spent the summer plucking and preparing chickens for a local restaurant. It was a lesson in responsibility and the consequences of mischief that Sybil remembers to this day.
A love for Christmas and Family Traditions
Sybil’s favorite holiday is Christmas, a time filled with cherished traditions and family togetherness. She fondly remembers riding a horse-drawn sled to her grandmother’s house, where they were greeted as “little darlings.” Stockings were filled with nuts and ribbon candy, and the family enjoyed oyster stew before attending a candlelight service on Christmas Eve. Even after becoming a mother herself, Sybil continued the tradition of staying up late to place her children’s gifts under the tree, ensuring the magic of Christmas lived on.
A Life Well Lived
As Sybil reflects on her life, she is most proud of her large, growing family, which now includes five children, ten grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. She’s watched her family grow with pride, finding great reward in seeing them flourish.
Her favorite saying, “What a wonderful world,” encapsulates her positive outlook on life, even through its ups and downs. Sybil hopes to be remembered as someone positive, who saw the best in people—a friend to many.
A Lasting Legacy
Sybil’s deep connection to the Nebraska Sandhills is evident in every aspect of her life. After marrying Don Malmberg in 1955, the couple moved to Brownlee, Nebraska, where Sybil continued teaching. They later moved to a ranch south of Gordon, Nebraska, where she became lifelong friends with Caroline Pifer, sister of famed author Mari Sandoz. Sybil’s efforts in preserving local history were instrumental, particularly her work in memorializing Mari Sandoz’s contributions through a museum and her own writings. Her dedication to the Sandhills and its people earned her a nomination to the Nebraska Sandhills Cowboy Hall of Fame—an honor that reflects her unwavering commitment to her roots. She received the award in 2020 but due to covid the ceremony was postponed to 2021.
Sybil Malmberg Berndt’s legacy extends far beyond her accomplishments as a beloved educator and family matriarch. Her collaboration with famed author Mari Sandoz not only earned her a place in the Nebraska Sandhills Cowboy Hall of Fame but also led to her receiving the prestigious Mari Sandoz Heritage Award, a testament to her significant contributions to preserving the heritage of the Sandhills.
Sybil’s creativity and dedication to her community were further exemplified when she wrote and directed the play “Sandhills in June” as a fundraiser for the Gordon Memorial Hospital. Despite the demands of running a fully operational cattle ranch, she managed to bring together a cast, write the music, and deliver an unforgettable performance that united and uplifted her community.
Sybil’s positive impact has touched every place she has called home, leaving a lasting impression of kindness, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to seeing the best in people.
A New Place to Call Home
At Westward Heights, Sybil continues to share her warmth and wisdom with everyone she meets. She speaks highly of the staff, noting their consistency, kindness, and the extraordinary care they provide. It’s clear that Westward Heights has become Sybil’s cherished home, a place where she continues to build relationships and enjoy the company of others.
“Westward Heights has been a godsend, providing the level of care my mother needs, and peace of mind for my family,” shared Sybil’s daughter Melanie. “Starting with my initial contact with administrative staff, we have been treated with respect, sensitivity and empathy by what is clearly a quality and well-trained and directed staff. In addition to medical care, the good food and social activities have improved her quality of life. We are grateful!”
As she looks back on a life filled with love, learning, and a deep connection to her roots, Sybil remains a vibrant and cherished member of the Westward Heights community. Her story is a testament to the power of education, the importance of family, and the enduring legacy of the Nebraska Sandhills.
If you are looking for a place for your loved one, Sybil and her family highly recommend Westward Heights Care Center. For more information, call (307) 332-5560 or visit the website here.
