Rev. Dr. James C. Berg

The Reverend Doctor James "Chris" Berg passed away peacefully in the evening of July 18, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Fr. Chris, as he was fondly known, went home to our Lord after a brave and lengthy battle with Parkinson's Disease and renal failure. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Margaret Berg, and his eldest sister, Martha. He is celebrated and remembered by his faithful wife of 45 years, Elizabeth "Lizzy/Lisa" Berg (Eaton), his loving children Katherine "Kate" and her husband Micah, and his precious grandbaby Lillian Jane. The family joins together to reflect on a life well-lived; his sister Jane, and brother Michael (Madeleine) and multiple treasured nieces/nephews and grand-nieces/nephews, as well as his Eaton family (David, Linda, Laura and the multiple generations of cousins, nieces and nephews.)
Fr. Chris had an exceptional mind, and a love for all thing academic. He was forever a student, always seeking to understand, to learn, grow, and expand. With numerous academic achievements, including a PhD, multiple Master's and Bachelor's degrees, and areas of focused study from Knox College, General Theological Seminary, General Theological Foundation, Oxford University- England, University of Detroit Mercy, Wayne State University, among others, Chris remained a faithful seeker of knowledge, truth, and understanding.
Chris was known as a non-anxious presence, whose comforting words and spirit were the Hallmark of his life of service. He truly saw himself as a servant of God, and embraced his calling to minister to his flock. From midnight trips to sit with families during difficult times, to joyous baptisms, to his prolific letter-writing, Chris found a way to support and love those around him. He treasured his years as a parish priest, particularly at Christ Episcopal Church- Calumet, Emmanuel Episcopal Church- Detroit, St. Andrew's Episcopal in Waterford, and most recently, All Saints Episcopal Church in Pontiac. He viewed each of these parishes as his family, and gave freely of himself, always. In addition to his life in the Church, he was also a wonderful professor, from World Religions, Humanities, English, History, to Greek, Hebrew and Latin. One of his greatest joys was to watch the "wheels turn" in the minds of his students, as they learned HOW to learn, to question, and to evaluate information. In recent months, Chris's heart was full of the love of studying Hebrew with his son-in-law Micah, and listening to stories read by little Lillian at his bedside. He instilled this love of learning in his daughter Katherine "Kate," and even as his body weakened, his mind remained sharp, enjoying spirited debates and discussions with her. He looked forward to his times of renewal and rest at the cottage at Bete Gris, on the majestic shores of Lake Superior.
By his side for 45 years, Elizabeth "Lisa/Lizzy" was a constant source of companionship, dedication, and care. She shared his love of God, of community, and for family. The two of them always ensured that those around them knew, beyond measure, how loved and valued they were.
Memorial Service will be held in October at All Saints Episcopal Church in Pontiac day and time pending. Please check back soon to this obituary for times and dates of service.