Obituary of Howard Berge

Howard W. Berge, age 93, died peacefully in his home on March 20, 2013. He was born in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, to Harry and Ottilie Berge. He graduated from St. Olaf College in Minnesota, and was drafted into the U.S. Army shortly thereafter, entering the service in 1941. Assigned to basic training in Camp Roberts in California, he then served at Camp Adair in Oregon from 1942 to 1943. While attending a USO dance, he met his wife Beth. They married in May 1944, shortly before he shipped out for Okinawa and the Philippine Islands. After his discharge, Howard and Beth spend one year in Minnesota before eventually returning to Oregon, where they settled in Eugene, and raised three daughters. Howard’s business career was spent entirely in Eugene, a community he loved, were he worked as an independent insurance agent. Beginning at Tromp & McKinley Insurance Agency, he moved to Montgomery Insurance Agency for several years, before establishing J.K. Pratt – Berge Insurance Agency, which he co-owned until his retirement. In 1971, Howard was honored as The Boss of the Year by Insurance Women of Eugene.Throughout his life, Howard gave of himself to his family, his church, and his community. He was a proud member or Eugene Kiwanis for 57 years, setting a personal example of great service and great cheer. He served as president in 1970 and was awarded the prestigious Hopkins-Hollis Award of Excellence in 1998, for his many contributions to the organization. As a strong supporter of several local charities, he believed in giving his time, energy and resources. Howard and Beth were members of First Christian Church since 1947, where he served as treasurer for more than twenty years. He enjoyed a good game of golf, and was a member of Shadow Hills Country Club for many years. A supporter of U of O teams, he attended many games at Autzen stadium, as well as the 1995 Rose Bowl game. In retirement, he and Beth travelled around the U.S. and Europe, and shared 62 years of loving marriage before her death in 2006. A wonderful father and grandfather, his greatest happiness was being surrounded by his family.Howard is survived by two daughters, Jamie McCornack and husband Steve, of Eugene, and Tracy Kempf and husband James of Riverbank, California, and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister Irene O’Kane, wife Beth (DeLapp) Berge, and daughter Jody Orlick.Howard exemplified a life of joyous love for his family, deep faith, and dedicated service to his community. He will be greatly missed by all who enjoyed his wonderful smile, loyal friendship and most generous spirit.A Celebration of Howard’s life will be held Sunday, April 14th, at 2pm, at First Christian Church, 1166 Oak St. Eugene. Memorial contributions can be made to First Christian Church.