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Benjamin David Berkman

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Brown University

Benjamin Berkman Obituary

Benjamin David Berkman
'Ben'
Mr. Berkman, 72, formerly of Charlotte, NC, died Friday, February 13, 2004 at Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta, GA. He was born February 19, 1931 in Providence, RI, son of the late Benjamin D. Berkman Sr. and Ruth Agnes Smith.
Ben graduated with a BS in Chemical Engineering from Brown University and an MBA from NY University. Ben retired from M.A. Hannah as a VP in research and development. His interests were varied to include camping, back packing, fishing, white water rafting, and enjoying a good cigar. He was an active member of the Prospect United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Ina H. Berkman of Covington, GA, former wife, Georgia S. Berkman of Youngsville, NC. His children include sons, David B. Berkman of Harrsiburg, NC, Benjamin A. Berkman and wife Robin of Charlotte, NC, and daughter, Diane B. Duquette and husband Duke, of Wake Forest, NC; step-daughters, Deborah H. Weigel and husband J.T. of Willow Park, TX, and Jeanie H. McCracken and husband, Kevin of Houston, TX; step-sons Arthur T. Hallock of Covington, GA, and Michael P. Hallock and wife Pam of Winder, GA; eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
A memorial service was held at the Prospect United Methodist Church, 6752 Hwy 212, North, Covington, GA, 30016 on Wednesday, February 18, 2004.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Prospect United Methodist Church.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Feb. 22, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Berkman

Sponsored by Duke & Diane Duquette for memories of Pop.

57 Entries

Diane

January 28, 2012

Dearest,
Well, I'm home again. I got laid off on January 3rd, but I'm okay with it. I'm following your advice and not turning down any interviews. Haven't been on many but with this economy, anything is good.
I saw you last night as Rico and I were walking down the driveway. You shined through the trees and I could feel you smiling down at me. I've simplified my life a lot lately and I think you would be proud. I'm helping Duke more with barn and house stuff which in turn I think is helping my healing process.
Ben has been coming up frequently and helping Duke with projects around the farm. Their friendship has grown a lot and I think it has really been great for Duke.
Health wise I think I'm doing better since I've been home. Being outside and getting more fresh air, loosing weight, exercising, it's all been good.

Diane Duquette

November 24, 2011

Dearest Pop,
It's been a long time since I've put anything down although we talk often still. There have been a lot of adventures since the cancer. Multiple broken bones, a couple surgeries, losses that can't be explained. Life has changed so much over the last few years and I am so full of questions. Through everything Duke is always by my side watching over me.
Duke and I took Mom to Golden Corral for dinner today. It was a nice quiet day, no one person had to cook or clean. You were in our thoughts as always, funny how a simple smell can bring back so many memories. Love you, always, punkie

Diane Duquette

March 12, 2010

Dearest Pop,
Next Friday is my last radiation day, March 19th. It's been a tough road, but you raised me to face challenges head on and it's paid off. Duke has been my blessing thoughout this whole journey, and you knew it from the first minute you met him! You were always a good judge of character(s) LOL

Duke Duquette

February 22, 2010

Happy Birthday.. Pop!!!
Thanks for keeping a watchful eye on Diane during her little challenge. We both know she'll kick this C square in the butt!!

Love ya.. Miss ya..

The Bull/Beast

Duke

February 13, 2009

Dearst Pop,
It's been 5 years since you left us and it feels like only yesterday. As you know Diane has been going thru some ruff times lately fighting this damn cancer but she's tuff and with both of our strengths and you watching over her she'll be back even stronger! I miss our times together! Please welcome my good friend John Bohnel who recently joined the team!

Love ya.. Miss ya.

The Bull/Beast

Diane

February 12, 2009

5 years is coming tomorrow, feels like only yesterday. Time has eased the pain but not healed the emptiness I feel without you here. There are moments when I wih so deeply to be able to pick up the phone can call you and then I realize that can't happen. So many things go through my mind missing the time we had when you were with me. Life can be so short.

Diane

November 17, 2008

I know you're shining down and always watching over me. Sending me strength when I feel weak, reminding me that life is an adventure. Send some of that Duke's way, he could use it right now. Always in my heart, I think of you everyday.

Diane

March 1, 2008

Always thinking of you. You shine so bright in the sky for me to see.

Duke Duquette

February 22, 2008

Happy Birthday.. Pop!!!

Love ya.. Miss ya..

The Bull/Beast

D D

August 7, 2007

I need your strength. Life is very difficult right now. I don't feel very sure about coping.

Duke Duquette

June 18, 2007

Hey Pop. Happy Father's Day!! Miss you and Love you!!

The Beast/Bull

Diane

June 17, 2007

It's Father's Day and what can I say? I miss you, of course, that is forever obvious. I think of you everyday, I see your beautiful face in my sleep, I still hear your vioce in my head. I picture your funny face and hear your famous "Whaaa" comment. I know I will see you again soon and again be able to hug you tell you how much I love you; and I patiently await that day.
Happy Father's Day my dearest one.

Diane Duquette

March 15, 2007

I've been looking up into the sky every morning as I'm feeding all the horses and there you are shining down on me. Even on the cloudiest of mornings, you shine through all the darkness. Last month was a tough month, but I seem to be pulling out of the mist I was in. I guess it will always be that way for me. But, as long as you keep shining down on me saying good morning Punkie in your special way, I'm okay!
Always thinking of you.

Diane "Punkie"

February 20, 2007

I looked up into the sky and saw your star shining down on me yesterday morning. A national holiday, how appropriate for your birthday.
I love you always.

Duke Duquette

February 19, 2007

Happy Birthday.. Pop!!!

Love ya.. Miss ya..

The Bull/Beast

Diane Duquette

February 16, 2007

Dearest Pop,
It doesn't seem like three years already. To me it was just yesterday. I wore the legendary FIAT jacket to work on Tuesday in your honor. Hard to imagine that jacket is 30 years old this year!!! I still dream about you lying in that hospital bed and trying to talk to me. I wish I could have heard your voice and known what you were trying to say. I still dream of sitting in your lap and falling asleep with my head on your chest and your arms around me. I still hear your heart beat lulling me to sleep. I miss you so much my heart aches. We had a beautiful colt born on January 30th, we nicknamed him Dannie Boy. He was actually due on February 13th but came a bit early. I guess I'm still not handling your leaving me so well, but Duke's been helping me a lot and Mom has been there whenever I needed her too. With all this support around me, I should be standing tall, but sometimes my shoulders still droop from missing you.

Duke Duquette

February 14, 2007

Dear Pop,
Well it's been three years since you left us and went to meet the Big Guy! Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and the times we shared together. Good news! I can't get in trouble any more for smoking a cigar in the dually. We now have an older pickup truck for the farm so, I can run errands and smoke a cigar whenever I want and the punk, your daughter can't scold me..lol.. Things are very hectic at work so, unfortunately by the time I get home I can only do a few things around the farm! But, it could be worse! I miss you! I wish your were here to help and defend me from the punk!!!hahaha
All my love,

Diane

August 11, 2006

Well here it is August already, time is flying by. We sold Pappi to a really nice family up in New York. I think he'll do really well with them and get even more spoiled than he already is! It's getting closer to October and I've been thinking lately about whether I'm ready to bring back the annual bbq. Duke hasn't said much about the idea, probably because he knows how sensitive it is for me. That was out "reunion" time. I know he'd enjoy doing it again and I really need to think seriously about it. Mom is doing well and keeping busy as always. Ben changed jobs which surprised everyone. It was very quick but fortunately he already had something lined up when he submitted his resignation. Duke's family is in Rome on a 3 week vacation - 2 weeks cruising and 1 week between Rome and Monte Carlo. Marc offerred to pay our way (he is doing it for the entire family) but I couldn't get 3 weeks off from my new job. I know Duke was a bit disappointed. Maybe next year. A Nice vacation to San Francisco or New York would be nice. I'd love to go back to the Grand Canyon and spend more time there viewing the canyon. I remember how you had spoken about going down into the canyon, how spiritual it was. Plus, i need to get back up tp your mountain so we can spend some time together!

I miss you, I love you....forever!

Diane Duquette

March 22, 2006

Hi Pop,

I sent you a note back a while ago right after your birthday but for some reason it didn't make it into your journal. Oh well. Everyone is doing very well. Mom is coming out and working Thunder at least three days a week getting ready for show season, she's very excited. Duke is working very hard as usual both at home and at the office. I'm employed again....finally. We hired a lady to handle the stalls during the day for us.....what a load off! Mom and I went to Williamston this past weekend and Belle (her little girl) took Reserve Grand Champion at Halter. Grandma was extatic! We have another show coming up the beginning of April and Robin and Kelsey are going to come up and camp out with Mom and I. The show will be at the Raleigh facility and the Rennassaince Festival is the same weekend. Mom and I will stay in the trailer and Robin and Kelsey will stay in a tent. It should be fun! Hopefully the weather will be good......

We had Jayyid checked yesterday and she tested positive for pregnancy. Mom was there to help the vet so she got to see the ultrasound. Halley Rose is due in a few weeks and if its a boy, we'll name it Dannie Boy for you! i had a dream that she was going to have a colt.

I have a picture from my engagement party at Gus and Robyn Suarez's house on my desk....I get to look at all day. Its of you and I sitting together in their den, its one of my favorites. One of my other favorites is right beside your picture,......Duke grinning into the camera. He hates the picture but I think it shows his true self and speaks volumes.

Your star is brilliant over the barn every morning, and I get to say good morning to you. Its nice to see you watching over me.

I love you always, Diane

Duke Duquette

February 19, 2006

Hey Pop,

Happy Birthday!!

Love,

Duke

Duke Duquette

February 7, 2006

Dear Pop,

Well it's been almost two years since you left us and went to meet the Big Guy! Things have been pretty hectic at work but, you already knew that! Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and the adventures we shared together. I got in trouble the other weekend. I was thinking about you and had to run some errands. So, I decided to smoke a cigar liked we use to do while I was in the dually running some errands and picking up some hay for the horses. I had to load it into the truck and bring it back and then unload it and put it up into the hay loft. Worked my butt off. Do you know that the punk, your daughter scolded me for smoking a cigar in the darn truck!! Can you believe that? Man she's getting tougher and tougher as time goes on.. I miss you! I wish your were here to defend me...and straighten her out! hahaha Yeah right.. You never really could. That's why I love her...she keeps me on my toes...

All my love,

Duke

Diane

January 22, 2006

Dearest Pop,

Well, I'm finally employed again. Best news is, I've made it out of the "secretary" box. I'll be a Project Manager. I also hired a lady to take care of the stalls Monday thru Friday so that I can concentrate on the horses before and after work. Things are looking up....although right now I have a terrible cold. Year 2 and your 75th are quickly approaching and I think about that every day. I want to get you something for your birthday, does that sound crazy? You're still with me all the time, I'll put it in our memories box. I start my new job on Feb. 1st....I get my own office....pretty good huh! I know you're smilin down on me.

Love you with all my heart and soul.

Diane

December 31, 2005

Hi Pop,

Well its New Years Eve, again! We all got together at Mom's this year for Christmas and to celebrate her 75th. It was nice but somber since you weren't there to celebrate with us. You were in all our thoughts, we all spoke of memories with you. Mom is doing really well, but she misses you terribly, as we all do. She speaks of years gone by and happier times. She is staying active helping me everyday with stalls and she has taken on working Thunder 3 times a week. Its great exercise for her and gets her out of the house when the down times hit her. Duke and I are still trying to talk her into moving here with us. I think we can add an addition onto the house that she would be very comfortable with. This way she doesn't have to be burdened with the mortgage or worry so much about her finances. I worry that she is still trying to assist other members of the family and is stretching herself too thin. Anyway, we are trying to figure out a way to get back up to Mt Washington in 2006 to see you for your 75th. It hinges on how my work situation goes. Things are tight right now. But, you already know all that! I found a christmas photo of you making "kissy face" with Jackson in Cary. I need to get it framed, its a great picture of the two of you. I'm not sure what year its from.

You're always in my thoughts and my heart. I love you forever, Punky.

Deborah Weigel

July 6, 2005

Hey Pop,

I have seen many white water birds flying over the ranchland since the 1st of July.....they look amazing against the purple thunderclouds that seem to build up over the land....and, as always, when I see them I think of you. I need to call Diane and wish her a happy birthday....you know, when you and Mom got married, the first few years you two would make the trek to Duke and Diane's for her birthday first, and then up to Virginia for mine...since our special days are only a couple of days apart, I think it made us feel very special. I miss those special times. I really do. Saturday mornings don't seem the same without our phone calls. We didn't talk every Saturday, but at least every other....I miss you mucho Pop. Take care. Oceans of Love, Deborah

Diane Duquette

June 13, 2005

Dearest Pop,

We are leaving for Scottsdale in a few days. Taking Mom for an early birthday present. Ben and Robin are joining us for a week. Mom wants to see the Sonoran Desert, Frank lloyd Wright's house and the Grand Canyon. We've got a few other surprises in store for her too! It will be nice to visit Sedona and see some of the places you visited that I have pictures of with you in them.

We bred Halley Rose on Friday, May 13th just the one time, took a chance. I had a dream about two weeks ago that she was pregnant and that she had a colt and we named it Dannie Boy after your favorite song. So far it looks like she is pregnant, so part of the dream is coming true. The last time I dreamed about one of her prenancies, I dreamed she was having a black filly and Rosie was born. If it turns out to be a colt and has the temperament of Rosie, Belle, Halley and Fred.....he'll stay a colt and we can use him for future breeding!

You know I'll be thinking about you the whole time we are out west. I'll be seeing you everywhere. I take out assorted videos occassionally and listen to your voice, its nice to have more than pictures.

I miss you so, it seems like yesterday.

Ben Berkman (Jr)

April 28, 2005

Pop,

I've been thinking about you quite a bit lately. I've had to do a lot of travel for work. Like you had to when we were little. I understand why now. A man has to do what he has to do to provide the best he can for his family. I understand you more and more the older I get. I wish you were here to give me some advice on how to deal with the lonlyness and home sickness that comes with being on the road. I do want to let you know that Diane and I are trying to keep an eye on Ina to make sure she doesn't need anything. Please rest in pease, you earned it. I love and miss you.

Not So Young Ben

Deborah Weigel

February 20, 2005

Dear Pop, Happy Birthday sweetie. I wrote something on the 13th, but it didn't show up in here for some reason. I hope this one makes it. I miss you so much. I want to thank you for watching over Jared, Diane, Ben, Georgia and yes, even my mother and Max. I still see the white water birds, not as much...but they still fly over the ranchland now and again. I will always love you. Deborah

Duke

February 19, 2005

Dear Pop,

Well it’s hard to believe that you have been gone just over a year. The girls and Ben Jr. went down to see Ina the other weekend and they had a really good trip. They went out to dinner and spent some time over the weekend reminiscing about you. Boy how I wish I could have been there so I could have joined in on sharing some stories about you. But, someone had to stay home and take of all of your daughter’s darn pets! Ha! Ha! Yes, I know you warned me about that but what can I say I’m from Rhode Island just like you. I’ve been doing my best to stay strong but some times it’s not easy because, I miss you very much. I want to let you know that I’m taking good care of your little girl but, you already knew that. All my love.

Duke

Ps Happy Birthday!!

Diane

February 19, 2005

Happy Birthday big boy, I miss you.

All my love always,

Diane

Diane

February 12, 2005

Dearest Pop,

Well here we are one day short of your anniversary. Mom and I are here at your house with Ina and Ben is almost arrived. We'll take Ina out tonight for her birthday. We've been reminiscing a bit about you and everyone is holding very well. Ina looks good, just to let you know and of course Max in chubby as ever!!!! In my last note I spoke about doing stupid thigs, not concentrating, obviously my sub-conscious (SP?) is coming to the surface, but you helped me through that last week. You came to me in a dream. All I remember is walking into a room (I couldn't tell you anything about the room) you were sitting in your easy chair and like a little kid I ran to you and jumped into your lap. You put your arms around me and held me, I think I fell asleep. It was just like years ago when I used to curl up in your lap and put my head against your chest ans fall asleep to the beat of your heart. What did I get from my dream? Your holding me in your arms and keeping me safe. And I know you're waiting for me when my time comes, not before.

Duke says hello and he loves you. You left me in the best hands on this earth. He is a wonderful, loving, kind........BEAST!

With all my heart, I love you,

Diane

Diane

January 26, 2005

Well, here we are nearing your first anniversary. You went into the hospital on February 4th and left us on the 13th. I thought I'd be strong but I was wrong. Yesterday I left for work and totally forgot to feed the horses....I just drove right by the barn and on to the office! Fortunately Mom went by and threw hay down until I could come home during lunch and take care of things. I'm doing stupid things, forgetting the simplest tasks. Duke left me a not on the back door this morning to remind me to feed every body and "make sure you're wearing underwear". He's being so good about this. I know its tough on him too. Mom and I are thinking about heading to your house on the 11th to spend the weekend with Ina. Since it's her 70th birthday and your anniversary we thought we'd keep her company for a couple days. It's not much, but we want to do this. Mom's gracious enough to accompany me since Ben will be in Biloxi.

I miss you, but you know that!

With all my heart, I love you.

Diane

December 21, 2004

Dearest Pop,

Well, it's almost Christmas time. No one is really saying anything but I can tell everything has changed. There isn't the joy that there used to be when you were with us. You'll be happy to know that we are all getting together at Mom's this year. You know we'll all be thinking of you and I'm sure you'll be watching us from above. I'm hoping that with the family here it will give me the boost I need to start getting things back in order. Duke has been very understanding and patient all these months but I know he is growing weary of the disarray. I finally hung your pictures and my letter to you the other night upstairs. It felt good to do. I will look upon you on January 5th at 12:00 PM, the true Christmas.

All my heart, I love you. "Muggy"

Ben (jr) Berkman

October 17, 2004

Pop,

I still think about you every day. I find that I miss your counsel, and humor more than I could have imagined. I know you are watching over all of your family from up on high but it hurts to not be able to talk to you face to face. I will miss you unitl we can see each other again and sit down for a talk over a good cigar.

A Letter from Pop

October 7, 2004

Pop Snoozin

October 7, 2004

Pop & JT

October 7, 2004

"Gentle Ben"

October 7, 2004

Diane

October 7, 2004

My Dearest,

It's been a while since I last wrote to you. We talk everyday and everyday I miss you. Things are slowly getting easier but I still find it hard to imagine normalcy in my life without you. I still cry so often but it is getting easier. We aren't haing the annual barbeque this year. I told Duke I just couldn't do it, I'm not ready. I dread Christmas. I've thrown myself into the horses and accomplished a lot with the babies this year. Of course you know Storm passed away and we sold Lilly and Maxi. Duke showed at halter for the first time and had a blast. I found pictures of you when you were her after the storm that brought the tree down on Mom's car last year. You looked so frail back then. I feel so much guilt that I didn't try to keep up with you and your health more. I hear so much these days about medications that you were on and the side efects they caused and wonder if I'd known more maybe something could have been prevented. I wish I could hear your voice, I miss you so much. I love you with all my heart.

Deborah Weigel

July 29, 2004

Dear Pop,

I think I can finally write to you again! My javascript wasn't working....I had written to you in here at least 6 times starting around Father's Day.....and, my posts wouldn't "take"....Anyway, I miss you so much. I see you were finally able to get back to Mt. Washington with your sweet Diane, Duke, Ben and the rest. I am so glad and please know, I was there in spirit....I have mentioned the white water birds before to you, right? I see them almost daily now flying over the ranchland. Very odd since there is no water except for a small pond. They are my symbol for you....it makes my heart smile and I feel you are saying "hey". You are so dearly missed by so many. I know you are watching over us, especially Diane. Oceans of Love Pop. Deborah

Georgia Berkman

July 20, 2004

Dear Pop: We all went up to Mt. Washington this past week-end. When we got to the top and parked the cars, the top of the mountain was in the clouds. You couldn't see anything beyond 10 feet. We divided up your ashes and each of us went to a secluded spot a little way down some of the trails and spread them or let the wind take them. David said that he put them under a rock to be sure you would always be there on the top of your beloved mountain. Then we reassembled near the lodge and just as we did, the clouds parted and the beautiful scenes spread out before us. It was as if you were saying "Thank you!" It was the most spiritual moment I have ever experienced. Ina and all the kids, Dave, Ben, Robin, Kelsey, Erik, Duke and Diane felt the same thing. We all miss you but we all feel at peace and know that you are there, too. All my love as always, Georgia

Diane

June 29, 2004

Well its almost time! Just a couple more weeks and we'll all be standing out on top of Mt Washington with you beside us. Just like old times.Are you excited about finally going back up? Its going to be difficult for all of us to let you go. We all must remember (especially me) that this was your wish. Here you'll be in your favorite element. I have to accept life without you which is very difficult. I always thought we'd be together forever. Where ever/when ever you went, you'd take me with you. I guess that was the child in me never wanting to be without her Daddy.

It will be nice to be up on the mountain again. I miss the hiking and camping trips.

Diane

June 18, 2004

Dearest Pop,

Ben and I went to Atlanta for the weekend to visit Ina. Michael was there too and we got to spend a lot of quality time with Ina and Ben was able to help Michael with moving some furniture. I spent time out in the yard trimming bushes and weeding. A couple of times while I was trimming the bushes I swear I saw you sitting on the front porch. It was so vivid. You were wearing your traditional Kacki shorts and kacki pullover, white athletic socks, sneakers and your "Indiana Jones" fedora, smoking a cigar. You were sitting there with your legs crossed grinning and puffing away! I kept waiting to hear the usual "Heh, whats going on out here" phrase, but you just sat there watching and puffing. I had to come sit on the porch for a while and gather myself back together.

Ben and I, Duke and Mom and Ina are all coming up to Mt. Washington in July. Ben and Duke are coordinating the trip. Duke really wants to carry you up there one more time but I'm afraid he isn't in condition to do that. He'll have to settle for the Cog Railway. Besides, we've never been on the railraod, it'll be nice to sit and watch the scenery for a change. This is going to one of the hardest things I've ever had to do in my life.

I love you more than words, more than life.

Diane Duquette

June 8, 2004

Dearest Pop,

Well, Father's Day is almost here. It's tearing me apart to know that you aren't. I had a dream about you this morning. All I can remember is walking to you and putting my arms around you and hugging you, you hugged me back and it felt so good, so real. I miss you so much. Duke is so patient with me but I know its hard for him. He's trying so hard to understand me. I'm trying hard to understand me. Soon we'll be bringing you back to Mt. Washington. I know you wanted to be with the mountain one last time. This last piece of closure is eating me up, I guess I don't want to let go even though I know I have to. I cry myself to sleep thinking about it. I can't seem to get back to normal, I just seem to be going about the motions everyday. The two new babies give me something to think about. You'd really like them, especially Bell. She's very dainty and sweet. She like to lean and rub up against you like a dog. Duke and I are going on a cruise with his family in August. I think (hope) that I can relax, rest and loose myself for a few days. I'll talk with you again soon (although we talk everyday, almost all day). With all my heart, I love you.

David Berkman

April 29, 2004

Hey Dad

How I wish I could pick up the phone and call you. I miss our talks, and I miss you.

I just wanted you to know that, and that I love you. You will always be in my heart.

Diane

April 1, 2004

Hi Pop,

Looking up into the night sky tonight out on the deck with the poochies. I like to think of you up there chatting with Christ and all your old friends, reminiscing. I still can't stop crying when I think of you. Duke has been so good and I know it hurts him to see me hurt like this but I miss you so much. I lay in bed and hear your voice, remembering our chats on Saturday mornings. I keep your picture at my desk so I can see your smiling eyes and touch your face.

Deborah H. Weigel

March 28, 2004

Hey Pop,

It just occurred to me that I may be able to use this guestbook to "talk" to you......I so miss our weekly talks. I go to call you and realize that you won't be answering, at least right away. The day of your memorial service, many of us were standing outside of the house when all of a sudden, a flock of huge cranes/herons (we still aren't sure!) flew over our heads. I made up my mind that every time I saw a flock of cranes/herons, it would be you saying "hey", and "I'm okay." I look for them each and every day and actually think I saw a flock of huges birds in the distance, over our ranchland (behind our home!!!). They weren't geese either....lol. I miss your sweet face and your smile. Love, Deborah

Georgia Berkman

March 27, 2004

Ben: I miss you very much. It seems that we became the really close friends that we should have been all along, after we were divorced. I loved every gruff, tuff hair on your head! You tried so hard to be tough and gruff but you really were just a pussy cat inside. I am so glad that you are finally out of pain and free. I think you knew that the end was near before it came. You seemed to want to make amends and you seemed so pleased to have all your family around you at one time. We all love you, as much or more than we ever did and miss you. As always, love---Georgia

Steve Vayo

March 26, 2004

Mr B...

Growing up in the ole neighborhood included spending time at the Berkmans. Playing board games(Stocks & Bonds or Risk..) You were and will always be my other pop. You included me with your sons so many many times... fishing..golfing... pick up football... wiffle ball all in that side yard of yours... I will never forget the terror you placed in me when i was standing on Mrs B's car trying to get a frisbie off your roof.. Just about wet my pants. There are so many times i can recall all too well. And I could easily go on..& on...

Thank you

Love Steve Vayo

Diane

March 25, 2004

A Letter to Daddy;

I remember being so afraid of you when I was younger. Mom used to always say, "you wait 'till your father gets home". You always travelled so much that when you did get home we didn't know what to expect. But then there was the camping, playing football in the side yard (you always let me make a touch-down), iceskating (remember when you fell on me), sledding (me sitting on top of you), and wrestling in the den (you always let me win). And of course, we can't forget the rollerskating at Mechanics Hall!

We've shared so much you and I through the years, so many changes. I remember when you were the twin of Archie Bunker (or so you thought), then a few years later you became the best friend type Dad, then the rebel and now the free spirit.

You've watched my changes from a tom-boy, to a rebel and now a woman.

We've both made a lot of mistakes, but never had to say sorry to either one because we always understood each other; it wasn't necessary.

Through everything we have stuck together, perhaps at times falling in and out of love with each other, but always finding each other in the end. You have always been my best friend, the one true person I can share my deepest desires, feelings, fears and thoughts with.

Sometimes I worry so much about you (like a mother) but I have to realize you are your own person and if you need me you will call on me.

People say that when you get married you have to break the "father/daughter ties", perhaps that's true, but you can still be my best friend.

I Love you

Diane Duquette

March 16, 2004

Poo-pa, the other night as I was standing out in the pasture I thought of how much you enjoyed sitting on the deck looking up at the stars. You said it seemed like you could reach up and grab one for yourself. You really liked the fact that there aren't any lights or artificial sounds here to ruin the beauty. I look up into the night sky and see this one particularly bright star and imagine that that is you smiling down on me. I asked Ben if he would be my "Saturday morning" call, as long as it's not too early for him! I miss our Saturday morning conversations. I found another one of your cards upstairs the other evening. It was the one you sent saying that you are always just a phone call away if I ever need you......I wish that was still true. I finally dreamed of you the other night. You didn't say anything but instead stood over us watching. I guess that's what you're doing now.

Duke Duquette

March 15, 2004

Dearest Pop,

Words can not express my thoughts for you! I want to thank you for all of the great times that we shared together. The fishing, back packing, white water rafting, the days on the farm and of course our quiet times together sharing a good cigar. You took me into your family almost 18 years ago and I have truly cherished every moment! But, most of all I want to thank you for the greatest gift you gave me, your daughter's hand in marriage and for that I am extremely thankful! I miss you and look forward to the day that we are together again!

All my love,

Duke

Benjamin Berkman

March 1, 2004

Pop,

I miss you so much. Our times together and the memories cannot fit into such a small space. I shall hold you in my heart and think of you every day. One day we will be able to watch the sun rise from a fishing boat again.

Deborah Hallock Weigel

February 27, 2004

Dear Pop,

I was your oldest step-child. I had the pleasure of having you as my step-father for 8 wonderful years. You filled a void (my father died in 1987) that I thought could never be replaced. You were a wonderful step-father, friend and all around wonderful guy. I will miss your wit, your love, your strong faith and your capacity to include us (Deborah,J.T., Artie, Jeanie, Michael, Brandon, Jared and little Anthony (your step-grandson),Kelly,Ryan, Josh, Raymond, Mandy in your wonderful family. Your daughter, Diane (my step-sister) is a treasure...No wonder she was your special little girl! We will miss you Pop. Pop, if you can, please watch over your little girl, Diane. She needs you so much right now... and your son, Ben (junior)needs your big strong heart as well.They are so special...like you were to me...Thanks for taking such good care of my mother. A kiss on every wave, I love you oceans, Deborah

Diane Duquette

February 27, 2004

My Dearest Pop,

I'll miss you until I'm with you finally holding your hand again. I love you with all my heart. You touched so many people and made my life so colorful. We experienced a lot of adventures together and you made me a well rounded person.

Thank you to everyone that has contacted the family. I'm so happy to see that Pop still remains in so many hearts.

Thoughts, thanks and prayers to everyone,

Diane Berkman Duquette

Tracy Phillips

February 17, 2004

I'll never forget the first time I met Ben. I had just come on board with PMS Consolidated and we were having lunch (Beefsteak Tomatoes--remember them?) in Coral Springs, Florida. Since I was the new kid in the company, he really put me through my paces in that very special "Ben" sort of way. Over the years we came to respect each other very much professionally and as friends. A compliment from Ben really meant something.

I'll miss knowing you're not with us anymore, Ben. Thank you for all you taught me over the years. Ben, tell Regina Bowers I said "Hi". I'm sure she'll be glad to meet you at the gate and show you around.

My deepest sympathy and prayers to the family. Ben was a very special man.

Steve Schneider

February 17, 2004

Ben was a unique personality. He seemed to always be able to put a positive spin on things, and always find a way to smile........he made me smile quite allot. Reminds me of the times at PMS Consolidated/M.A.HannaColor when this color business was a lot more fun!!

I'm happy to have known him. God Bless you Ben and your family.

Jane Feagans

February 17, 2004

To Ben's family --

I was in Disciple 2 Bible Study with Ben several years ago at Norcross UMC. I really enjoyed spending a little time with this terrific gentleman. My thoughts are with you, his loved ones.

Sincerely, Jane Feagans

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