James Berger

Berger, James 04/01/1930 ~ 01/16/2015 VISTA -- Jim was born in Vicksburg, Michigan. He served in the U.S. Air Force and graduated from Western Michigan University as a teacher. After teaching one year, he was determined to leave cold weather behind and headed for California. Almost settling in Lemon Grove, he had an interview in Oceanside and was hired. Jim taught art and crafts at Jefferson Jr. High for over 20 years. During this time, he married Shirley and earned a Master's Degree. After retiring, he learned the art of jewelry making. Designing and creating gold and silver jewelry became his passion. Many of his customers became friends. He truly loved his trade. Illness set in and he had to give up his business. Jim died of Alzheimer's Disease. He and Shirley were married two weeks short of 50 years. They lived in the same home for 45 years. He was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church in Vista, CA. Many trips were enjoyed including a sabbatical to Mexico, three months in Europe, a catamaran trip in Alaska, and camping inland. He leaves a loving family: his wife, Shirley; stepson, Ron Kopp and his wife Sue; step- daughter, Claudia Medeiros, six grand- children: Ron, O.J., Corey, Danni, Cristi and Jeff; and several great- grandchildren. A family service and interment will be held at the Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside, CA.