Charles R. Berka

Charles Robbie Berka, 77 of College Station, passed away Tuesday January 19, 2016 at the College Station Medical Center. A Rosary will be recited Saturday, January 23, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. followed by visitation until 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Chapel in College Station. The funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday January 24, 2016 at the funeral home with Reverend Darrell Kostiha officiating. Burial will follow at Tryon Cemetery near Kurten.

Charles was born May 22, 1938 in Caldwell to Rosie Vavra Berka. He grew up in Caldwell and met Patricia Hardwick of Navasota at a dance in Bryan. They were married in 1957 and moved to Bryan, where Charles worked for 18 years as a mechanic for Cade Motor Company, which later became Beal Ford. He and Patricia were blessed with three children, Terri, Chuck, and Rick. In December 1968, Patricia passed away leaving behind Charles and her family. In 1969, Charles met Ollie Mae Byer and they married in 1970. Charles and Ollie added two more daughters to the family, Michelle and Stephanie. In 1980, Charles went to work for the City of College Station in Fleet Services as a mechanic, retiring after 21 years of service.

Charles loved music and played the rhythm guitar for the Western Wonders. One of his favorite places to play was at Ed’s Place in Bryan. Charles loved his family, ranching, and working with his cattle. He also loved being outdoors, and his dog Maya. He was best known for his words of wisdom, especially, “How can I help you if you won’t let me”.

Charles was preceded in death by his parent; and three sisters, Norma Doty, Zelma Hester, and Jane Hruska.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ollie Berka of College Station; two sons, Charles “Chuck” Berka and his fianceé Rene Guyton of Bryan; Richard “Rick” Berka and his wife Guadalupe of Manor; three daughters, Terri Berka of College Station, Michelle Johnson and husband Julian of College Station, and Stephanie Berka and fianceé Matt Hennes of Pflugerville; two brothers, Ben Berka and Quincy Berka both of Caldwell; one sister, Doris Broaddus of Caldwell; nine grandchildren, Heather McKinnon, Kristi Donaldson and husband Lonnie, Dustin McKinnon, Ashley Berka, Brian McKinnon, Chelsea Johnson, Jordan Johnson, Steven Berka, and Raylen Guyton; six great-grandchildren, Jackson Donaldson, Hope Schulz, Levi Donaldson, Silas McKinnon, Rose Donaldson, and Brayden McKinnon; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Memorials may be given to the Disabled Veterans Association, C/O DAV Charitable Services, 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, Kentucky 41076.