GEORGE BERGER

1930 - 2021

GEORGE BERGER, 91, of Fort Wayne, went to heaven to be with his Lord Jesus on Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021, where he was reunited with his loving wife of 62 years, Alice. Born Sept. 7, 1930, in Klenak, Yugoslavia, he was a son of the late Franz and Maria Berger. After fleeing their home during World War II, he and his family lived several years in Displaced Persons Camps until immigrating to the United States in July of 1951. He ultimately moved to Fort Wayne in September of 1951 to play soccer for the Fort Wayne Sport Club where he remained a member. While George was very proud of his German heritage, he was equally proud of his U.S. citizenship. He was featured in the Fort Wayne Newspaper in 1994 for writing his song, "America The Free". He regularly attended worship at St. Peter's Lutheran Church since 1955. Although George's profession for many years was in the sheet metal industry, he wore many different hats. He was fluent in multiple languages and continued to write to friends and relatives until the time of his death. He was extremely handy and could fix anything. He enjoyed woodworking which he continued to do with much determination, creativity, and skill even after a massive stroke left him with the use of only one arm. He never knew a stranger, was friendly to everyone, and told many jokes. He could often be heard singing or whistling wherever he would go. He enjoyed gardening and often shared childhood memories of his family's vineyards in the homeland. What he was most known for was his German music. He learned to play the accordion as a boy while living in Austria and spread joy entertaining thousands ever since. He played his accordion and keyboard solo and in several bands in various venues and cities for over 60 years. However, most special to him was playing in the family's German band, Freudemacher, for almost 40 years with his sons and grandson. In addition to playing music, George loved writing songs and wrote over 1,000 songs. What George loved and cared about the most was his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was very self-sacrificing and always found happiness in helping others. He especially always helped his children in any way he could. For example, he helped his son Dan in February of 1983 when Dan started Berger Auto Parts & Service and has continued to help and support Dan and the Berger Auto employees throughout the years in many ways. He is survived by his children, Linda S. (Terry) Atz, Daniel J. (Rita) Berger, James L. (Kimberly) Berger, Barbara A. (Mark) Christian, and Sarah E. (Mark) Ruppert; 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and another great-granddaughter on the way. In addition to his loving wife and parents, he was also preceded in death by his daughter, Laura M. Berger; and brother, Jakob Berger. Funeral service is 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 7710 East State Blvd., Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021, at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Memorial donations may be given to St. Peter's Lutheran Church or Fort Wayne Sport Club (in memory of George Berger). Arrangements have been entrusted to Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne. For online condolences, visit www.hockemeyermillerfh.com