Donald L. Berg

BERG, donald L. (Don), passed away peacefully at his home on February 25th, he was 87. Don was well known local developer, restaurateur and a resident of Key Biscayne for 61 years. He was born and raised on the family farm near Traverse City, Michigan. After graduation from high school, he joined the Navy and took part in the Pacific Naval campaigns of 1944 and 45 and the early occupation of Japan. He was later commissioned a 1st Lieutenant in the US Army. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1951. Moving to Miami, he started his first business the next year, designing and manufacturing driftwood furniture and within years he began a career in commercial real estate sales and then development. His companies built offices, shopping centers, apartments, condominiums and bowling centers across the Southeastern states. He became involved in the restaurant business as a sideline but it became one of his many passions. His most well known restaurants locally were the Jamaica Inn and English Pub, where he hosted Presidents, Royalty and an ongoing stream of celebrated personalities. Don was involved with numerous charitable organizations and sat on many board of directors. He was a devoted family man and father. He is survived by his son Don II, his daughters Billie Ann Berg and Helen Berg. He was predeceased by his wife Monique and grandson Justin Kleinpeter. A memorial service will be held today at 3 pm at St. Christopher's by the Sea on Key Biscayne. The public is invited. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to a charity of one's choice.