Michael Ian Berger

Earning a B.S. in Chemistry and an M.S. in Paper Science and Engineering from Syracuse University, Michael started his career in the pulp and paper industry with Westvaco Corporation. He next joined specialty chemicals manufacturer, Degussa Corporation as a Sr. Applications Specialist and later becoming a Marketing executive.

But his passion for science led him to a second career as a teacher of Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science, first at Union High School for 4 years and subsequently at Morris Knolls High School in Rockaway for the past 14 years. He was a gifted teacher and his students enjoyed his many stories about his family of cats.

An avid golfer at Mount Tabor Country Club, he was also a member of the Morristown Field Club where he and his wife, Janice, enjoyed playing tennis and pickleball.

His many interests included storm chasing throughout the Midwest, restoring vintage pinball machines, collecting 45 rpm records for his 1956 Rockola jukebox, and tinkering at his workbench. He enjoyed cooking and especially liked smoking ribs and brisket which he would generously share with friends and neighbors.

Shortly after moving to Mount Tabor in 2004, Michael joined the town's board of trustees. His leadership skills landed him the position of President of the Board of Trustees from 2011 until 2014.

Predeceased by his father Sidney and his father-in-law, Leonard Kriegman, he is survived by his wife, Janice Kriegman-Berger, his mother, Shirley, his brother and his wife David and Nancy Berger, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Andy and Elizabeth Kriegman, and four nieces and a one nephew. Michael is missed by his beloved cats, Oscar, L.J. and Dexter.

Services were held March 17 with arrangements by Bernheim Apter Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel, Livingston.

Memorial contributions may be made to Jewish Family Services of MetroWest or to Mt. Pleasant Animal Hospital.