Michael Allen "Mike" Berger Jr.

Michael Allen Berger Jr.'s wishes were to be cremated and there are no services planned at this time. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. A memorial celebration of his life will be held in the spring at Butler Lake, a place he loved and where he spent many peaceful hours fishing.

Michael "Mike" Allen Berger Jr. age 48 of Butler, Missouri passed away on January 12, 2026, at Cass Regional Medical Center in Harrisonville, Missouri. He was born on November 7, 1977 to Michael Allen Berger Sr. and Jeannie Marie Johnson Berger in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Mike, affectionately known to all as "Boo," was a funny, warm, gentle and deeply protective soul. He was kind to everyone he met, always willing to help and never hesitated to show up when someone needed him. His quiet humor, steady presence and generous heart made people feel safe, welcomed and cared for. He was the kind of man everyone loved–not because he demanded attention, but because his goodness spoke for itself.

Mike was an avid fisherman who loved being on the water, especially at Butler Lake and he loved fishing almost as much as he loved his family. He also loved wrenching on cars, working on anything with a motor and tinkering with anything that could be fixed, built, or made better. Mike's hands were always busy, his heart was always open and his presence brought comfort and calm to those around him.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, his greatest joy was his family. Mike was deeply loving and unfailingly devoted and Beth felt his love every single day. She never doubted his love for her for a moment–not even on the hardest days. Mike was her safe place, her steady partner, her home and the love of her life. He will be remembered for his kindness, his steady heart and the love he gave so freely.

Mike is survived by his wife of 30 years, Beth Kirkwood-Berger; two sons, Trevor Berger and wife Auna and Adam Kirkwood and wife Catherine; three grandchildren, Adam Jr., Kaiden and Claire; parents, Mike and Jeannie Berger; three siblings, Chris, Jamie and Amy; and many nieces and nephews.