Neil J. Berger

Neil J. Berger of Coupeville passed away peacefully on June 27, 2008, after a long and courageous battle against prostate cancer and its complications. Born Nov. 22, 1937, Neil was a much loved and respected member of the Whidbey Island community.

Before retiring, Neil was a school teacher in the Northshore and Shoreline districts for 36 years. As a sixth-grade teacher he was the favorite of many students and had a positive influence on countless young lives. Son of longtime island resident Max Berger, Neil was an active member of the island community as a member of the Whidbey Cruzers Club and a local woodcarving club.

Neil enjoyed having coffee with “the guys” from the Cruzers club at Flowers Marine every day or so and comparing notes on their beloved vintage cars. He was especially proud and excited to drive his fully-restored, green, vintage Cadillac in the 2008 St. Patrick’s Day parade in Oak Harbor.

His love of God, family and country were apparent to all who knew him and a source of pride and inspiration to his family and friends. He was an exemplary father, son, grandfather, brother, husband and friend.

Among those who loved and survive him are: his wife Joyce, sister Sue Gregory, 68, brother Jay Berger, 60, sons Thomas Just Berger, 45, wife Nancy, Eric William Berger, 37, wife Caren, and daughter Catherine (Cat) Anne Morrison 52, grandchildren; TJ (Thomas Just II) Berger 17, Stuart Allen Welborn, 30, Spencer Geoffrey Lohnes, 23, Avery Jane Berger, 4, Samantha Joyce Berger, 2, and Molly Anne Berger, 6 months. Also nieces and nephews, Charles Allen Dahl, 49, John Davis, 42, and Jennifer Sue Muller, 39, all of whom reside in the Seattle area.

Dad, we know you’re up there throwing the ball for Butch and smoking a cigar with grandpa. We will love and honor you for the rest of our lives: Cat, Tom and Eric.

The family suggests donations be made to Prostate Cancer Research via the American Cancer Society. Arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel. Friends and family may go online and sign Neil’s guest book at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com.