Gerald D. Berkman

January 18, 1935 - January 9, 2014

Obituary for Gerald Donald Berkman lost his battle with cancer on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at the age of 78. He was born on January 18, 1935 in Buffalo, New York to the late John and Florence Berkman. Gerald served his country as a soldier in the New York National Guard. He also loved sports, and played in the Philadelphia Farm League before becoming a teacher and a coach. He taught in the Buffalo School System for over 30 years, and as a coach he received many honors to include; Harvard Cup Hall of Fame-Class of 2002, Bennett High School Sports Hall of Fame-2006, and had coached many championship teams in baseball and football. Gerald enjoyed playing softball and was a gifted wood carver. In 2000 he decided to make his home here in Leesburg with his loving wife of over 50 years, Duane Berkman, who survives him along with their two sons; Kevin Berkman of Smyrna, GA, and David Berkman of Seaside, Oregon, daughter; Nancy (Bill) Freeman of Tampa, FL and five grandchildren; Keryzz, Tarynn, and Elrycc Berkman and Dylan and McKenzie Freeman. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated for Mr. Berkman on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014 at 8:30 a.m. in the St. Paul’s Catholic Church. A private inurnment will take place on Saturday, Jan. 18th in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials in Gerald’s honor be directed to the Leesburg Humane Society, 41250 Emeralda Island Rd Leesburg, FL 34788 or to Cornerstone Hospice, 2445 Lane Park Rd, Tavares, FL 32778.