Myrna Berke

Myrna "Mickey" Berke

February 18, 1938 – November 4, 2026

Myrna "Mickey" Berke, born Myrna Medwed on February 18, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on November 4, 2026.

Mickey was a remarkable woman who combined intelligence, determination, style, generosity, and a strong personality with a genuine appreciation for life and the people around her.

Bright and academically gifted from an early age, Mickey earned a full scholarship to Brandeis University, an accomplishment that reflected her exceptional abilities. Ultimately, she chose a different path, taking classes at Brooklyn College instead.

Mickey and her husband, Allen Roy Berke, came from modest beginnings. Together, they worked hard, made sacrifices, and built a wonderful life for themselves and their family. As they became successful, they enjoyed the rewards of their efforts, embracing travel, shopping, and the finer things in life. They appreciated what they had because they knew what it took to earn it. Allen passed away in March 2006, but the life they created together remained a lasting part of Mickey's story.

Mickey was beautiful, impeccably dressed, and had an extraordinary sense of style and taste. She loved to travel, shop, socialize, and surround herself with friends and family. She was strong-willed, outspoken, and never hesitant to tell you exactly what she thought. She held herself and those around her to high standards, particularly her children, whom she encouraged to work hard, present themselves well, and always strive for their best.

Her advice to the ladies in the family was unmistakably Mickey: "Put on some lipstick and put a comb through your hair!" It was more than a fashion suggestion; it was her philosophy about presenting yourself to the world.

Behind her strong opinions and high expectations was a kind and generous woman who cared deeply about her family and friends. She was thoughtful, giving, and always willing to share with those she loved.

Mickey devoted many years of her professional life to Marlboro Township in Monmouth County, New Jersey. She began by collecting taxes for the township and later took responsibility for paying its bills. She retired around 2004 after many years of service.

Following retirement, Mickey lived in the Beau Ridge neighborhood of Holmdel before eventually making her home at Regency in Monroe Township.

Her greatest legacy is her family. She was the proud mother of Robin Berke and Michael Berke, and mother-in-law to Lauren Berke. She was a loving grandmother to Stephanie, Eric, and Garrett, the children of Michael and Lauren.

She also leaves behind her sister, Judy Garfinkel, and her brother, Gary Medwed, and his wife, Jean, along with her sister-in-law, Roberta Rothman. Her extended family includes her nieces and nephews: Barry and Rosemary Garfinkel, Debbie and Ira Samilow, Jill and Ricky Harnish, Karen and Brian Higgins, and Mark and Sisi Rothman, along with many other relatives and dear friends.

Mickey lived life on her own terms. She was smart, stylish, determined, generous, and never afraid to speak her mind. She and Allen built a life through hard work and determination, and she made certain to enjoy the rewards along the way. She leaves behind a family who will remember her not only for what she accomplished, but for the unmistakable personality that made her Mickey.

And if there is one final piece of advice she would want to leave with the ladies in the family, it would undoubtedly be:

"Put on some lipstick and put a comb through your hair!"

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.