Marvin Joel Berlin

Marvin Joel Berlin, 87, of Cary NC, formerly of Rockland County NY, passed away peacefully in his home on December 29th surrounded by his family. He was born on December 8th, 1933 to Irving and Lottie Berlin of Brooklyn, NY and was the oldest brother to Paul and Susan Berlin. Marvin was called to active duty in the U.S. Army where he proudly served during the Korean War. After the war, he graduated from Brooklyn College with a degree in Business. He was united in marriage to his beloved Kate Helene (Brodsky) on June 30th, 1958 and together they built a legacy. They had 2 children, Pami (Berlin) Jesse and Corey Berlin and had 8 beautiful grandchildren, Megan (Jesse) Kain, Ryan Jesse, Samantha Berlin, Heather Jesse, Joshua Berlin, Jacob Berlin and Sarah Berlin.

Marvin was a buyer for Korvette’s in NYC then moved on to be head of sales for the Worchester Knitting Company based in the Empire State Building. He continued his love of sales when he moved to Cary NC, working at the NC State Fairgrounds Flea Market where everyone he met was a friend. He used to take his children Pami and Corey to the top of the Empire State Building and show them his city. He had a deep love of New York City and it wouldn't be surprising if everyone from Port Authority to his office knew of Marvin. He touted his Brooklyn accent everywhere he went, always on the search for new friends and adventures.

In his free time, Marvin took to the streets of his favorite city in the world with a camera in tow. He had a rare eye and left behind hundreds of home movies and photos. He had a knack for the arts, whether he was painting or working with his film photography. He taught his family that life is beautiful and to capture every moment possible.

Marvin had a passion for seeing the world, and showing his family how beautiful it can all be. He loved to travel with the light of his life, Kate. He loved different cultures, people, and of course the cuisine. He was selfless and made sure every trip was a chance to reconnect with his family. Any time he got the chance, he made sure to bring his children along to share the beauty of the world. He saw the greatness in everything and wanted to share his joys with everyone he knew.

Marvin raised his family in Rockland County, NY and eventually followed them to Cary, NC in 1995. He was a true patriarch to his family, supporting them with love and wisdom every step of the way. He played an active role in raising his grandchildren and carried on the beautiful traditions of their Jewish faith at Temple Beth Shalom.

Marvin’s spirit will not only live on in his children and grandchildren but also in his sister Susan Berlin, a daughter-in-law that called him Dad, Carolyn Berlin, a grandson by marriage, Bryce Kain, his Brother-in-law Albert Toss and Godsons Steven and Kevin Toss, his son to be, Pete Rusnack and fur babies Sassy the dog and Nolan the cat.

He will be dearly missed by all his family and friends. Their hearts all have a big empty space that will never be filled. His family finds solace knowing that he has been reunited with all of those that have passed before him, especially his beloved bride, Kate. Together, they are dancing to Frank Sinatra and holding each other tight.

All that knew Marvin said he was a kind, gentle man and a stranger to none. His spirit will live on through his children, his grandchildren, and everyone who was lucky enough to know him.