Donald Edward Berg, a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, went peacefully to be with the Lord on August 12, 2022 at the age of 96.
Don was born in Long Prairie, Minnesota on May 3, 1926 to Einar M. Berg and Nanna W. Anderson. His father was county auditor and active on many civic fronts. Don’s mother graduated from Moorhead State Teachers College and worked as a teacher. The family moved to Seattle, Washington in 1933 where Don attended Lincoln High School.
Don felt the call of duty in April 1944 and departed high school his junior year to serve in the US Navy until May 1947. He served aboard the USS Takelma in the Pacific Region and then completed his High School diploma. There is no doubt Don was one of the acclaimed men from the “Greatest Generation”. He was honorable, handled whatever came his way, never wanting recognition and steadfast in his responsibilities.
In August 1948, Don began his career with the Seattle Police Department (SPD). Shortly thereafter, he married Geraldine Eden on September 18, 1948. They were married for 23 years and blessed with three children: Sharon (Dain), Steven Berg, and Bruce Berg.
Don’s career with SPD spanned 30 years, advancing from Sergeant in 1963 to Lieutenant of Traffic Investigation by the time he retired, August 1, 1978. He was also honored to participate on the SPD Motorcycle Drill Team from 1966 – 1973, serving as Drill Master and then Drill Captain.
In Seattle on September 3, 1971, Don married Joan (Jo) (Pedersen) Hawkins. Don’s family expanded to include Jo’s two sons, Kermit and Kevin Hawkins. Two years after retiring, Don and Jo moved to the serenity of Lake Roesiger. At their shoreline home, they enjoyed entertaining friends while Don completed his first major retirement project – a four-car workshop. Don enjoyed repairing, building, and creating just about anything and everything.
Don and Jo moved to Sun City, Arizona in 1986. Don was strong in his faith and continued to be active in his church. For many years he taped the church services for those that could not attend. He participated in the many activities of the men’s church group, including weekly 4 AM preparations for the men’s breakfast.
Don’s greatest joy was time he spent with his family and many friends. At their home in Sun City they entertained visitors year round to play golf, swim, or just relax and enjoy a meal on the patio.
His beloved wife Jo, her son Kevin Hawkins, Don’s parents, his three sisters and two brothers, preceded Don in death.
Don is survived by his loving children and grandchildren. His daughter, Sharon (Berg) Dain, son-in-law Perry Dain and grandson Donald Dain. His two sons; Steven Berg (and Heather Patrick) and Bruce Berg, daughter-in-law April (Thurber) Berg, and grandson Bryan Berg. In his extended family, Don is survived by Jo’s loving son Kermit Hawkins, daughter-in-law Vicki; daughter-in-law DeLawn (Hawkins) Heald, grandchild Ryan Smith (wife Erica), and great-grandsons Jaimie and Westley.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memoriam to Alzheimer's Foundation of America.
The date and time for Don's Memorial Service will be announced later.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.finleysunsethills.com for the Berg family.
DONATIONS
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17