Sheldon Berkowitz

Born and raised in the Highbridge neighborhood of the Bronx, Shelly met the love of his life, Virginia (Greeley), while they were still in high school. Their love story spanned more than six decades, and they were married on May 6, 1961. Together they built a life grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. In 1966, they moved to Nyack to raise their four children, and later settled in Valley Cottage in 1980, where Shelly lived for the remainder of his life.

A proud former member of the Empire Hook & Ladder Fire Department, Shelly was a true pillar of the Nyack and Valley Cottage communities. He dedicated over a decade to coaching Little League baseball with the Nyack/Valley Cottage Little League and youth football with the Valley Cottage Indians. His commitment to mentoring young athletes and instilling values of teamwork and perseverance left a lasting impact on a generation of local youth.

Even after his coaching years, Shelly remained a fixture at Nyack High School sporting events, earning the affectionate nickname “GM” for his constant presence and loyal support of all Nyack teams. A proud Nyack Indian, his heart never strayed far from the football field. He was a long-standing member of the Nyack Monday Morning Quarterbacks and found great joy in being in the stands on Friday nights or on the sidelines cheering on the Nyack football team. His passion also extended to the New York Giants, the Yankees, and St. John’s basketball. He passed his love of sports to his children and grandchildren.

Shelly was deeply devoted to his family. He was the kind of father who woke up at 3:00 AM for work so he could be home in time for family dinners, games, and school events. His six grandchildren—Michael and Grace Frizalone, Hayden, Dylan, Avery, and Brennan Berkowitz—were his pride and joy, and he lit up in their presence. His quiet strength, dry wit, and loyal heart will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Shelly was predeceased by his beloved wife Ginny in 2021. He is survived by his four children: Cathie Frizalone (Peter) of Stanwood, WA; Christine Marie Berkowitz-Gentile of Orangeburg, NY; Daniel Berkowitz (Tammie) of Destin, FL; and James Berkowitz (Carolyn) of Cornwall, NY. He is also survived by his brother, Barney Berkowitz (Dorothy) of Pembroke Pines, FL; his sister, Ethel Rogers of Merrick, NY; his six grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family is deeply grateful to all who supported Shelly and Ginny through his illness and extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers who helped him remain at home for as long as possible.

Services

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 PM at Higgins Funeral Home, Lake Road, Congers, NY. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:15 AM at St. Ann’s Church, Nyack, NY, with burial to follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Nyack.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shelly’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice.