Miriam Villchur Berg

1948 - 2017

Miriam Villchur Berg WOODSTOCK-Miriam Villchur Berg, 69, died peacefully at her home in Woodstock, New York, on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017. Daughter of Edgar and Romy Villchur, Miriam was born Jan. 9, 1948, in New York City; the family moved to the hamlet of Zena in 1952. Miriam graduated from Barnard College with a degree in classics. She was an accomplished singer, musician, writer, and editor. She was extraordinarily proud of her family of origin and created a blog to tell the story of her parents and their parents. For the last 15 years, Miriam has been editor and program annotator for the classical music programs presented by the Maverick Concerts. Her narratives are knowledgeable, and she made the classics much more accessible by pointing out characteristics that the audience should listen to in the music. Miriam was a leader in everything she did. She played a significant role in the size-acceptance movement, and was a strong advocate for women’s equality. But her greatest passion was singing. She cofounded the a cappella vocal ensemble Woodstock Renaissance with Ellen Reitemeyer, later joined by Eric Erickson, Susan Phillips, Alan McKnight, and George Carrothers; other singers also took part through the years. Their music was not only beautiful but wonderfully joyous. A believer in the divine Feminine, Miriam was a creator of women’s circles and singing circles. On June 22, 2013, the summer solstice, Miriam married her longtime partner, Nancy Summer, in a joyous ceremony at their home. Nancy died March 4, 2016. Miriam’s gentleness, generosity, and kindness made her much loved by a huge circle of friends, old and new. She helped to found Family of Woodstock and was an active member of the Woodstock Jewish Congregation. She leaves behind her mother, who turned 100 in Aug., her brother, Mark, and her former husband, Michael Berg. Thanks to her many loving caregivers, including Carl, Robyn, Dawn, Rivers, Valley, and Bill. A memorial service will be held Thursday, Sept. 7, at 10 a.m. at the Woodstock Jewish Congregation, 1682 Glasco Turnpike, Woodstock. Arrangements are by Lasher Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Maverick Concerts, Family of Woodstock, or the Woodstock Jewish Congregation.