Erich G. Berke

It is with deep sorrow that the passing of Erich Gustave Berke is announced, who died at the age of 79 in Egg Harbor City, NJ, on June 12, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he grew up in the Olney section and attended St. Helena’s grade school and Cardinal Dougherty High School. After moving to Elkins Park at 14, he graduated from Abington High School in 1964 and went on to earn a Bachelors Degree in finance and political science from Temple University in 1968. He later resided in Palm Beach Gardens for the past 12 years

Post college, Erich worked in the hotmelt/packing industry for the Kraft, Bostik companies and later founded his own company, ValuMelt. When he moved to Florida, he worked as an Able Limousine driver in West Palm Beach, FL for 9 years before fully retiring 2 years ago. In his free time, he found joy in playing golf and relaxing on his lanai. From his lanai, he enjoyed watching golfers on the 11th hole and socializing with them, while also observing the graceful sandhill cranes as they glided and landed in the nearby pond. He was a fan of the Phillies and the Eagles, always tuning into their games. His intellectual interests included day trading and engaging in hours of discussion about politics. He had a particular fondness for cheesesteaks and ice cream. Breakfast was a favorite meal, often enjoyed at the New Jersey Shore diner in Florida, and his evenings were dedicated to exploring local al fresco dining experiences. But above all else, Erich treasured his family. He loved his wife, three children, four grandchildren, and stepdaughter dearly, always eager to connect with them and stay updated on their lives and adventures.

Erich G. Berke was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Gertrude (Gerda) Berke. He is survived by his wife, Gabrielle Black. He is also survived by his brother, Carl Berke, and sister-in-law, Eleonore. He leaves behind his three children: his son, Erich D. Berke, and daughter-in-law, Kelley; his daughter, Andrea Crookham, and son-in-law, Robert (Bob); and his youngest daughter, Natalie Cheney, and son-in-law, Mark. He was also a proud grandfather to Brooke Cheney, Erich M. Berke, Lauren Berke, and Caroline Cheney. He is further survived by his stepdaughter, Johnelle Desimone, and his previous wife, Cynthia Berke (mother of his three children).

Erich's infectious spirit will be deeply missed. His cheerful demeanor and quick wit brightened every space he entered. His ability to find humor in any situation and his remarkable laughter were a gift. He always found the 'silver lining' and reminded others to smile, often sharing his father's best advice. Even though Erich's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit, and sense of humor will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing to all, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. As you continue to worship Jesus up there, dear husband and dad, may your light forever shine brightly in our hearts.

Funeral Mass will be at will be on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 1:30 PM at St. Patrick’s Church, 86 Cooper Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096.

Interment will take place later with immediate family at Resurrection Cemetery in Bensalem, PA 19020. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/. Online condolences may be placed at: https://www.parselsfh.com./