Roger Alan Berkheimer

Roger Alan Berkheimer obituary, Park Ridge, IL

Roger Alan Berkheimer

Roger Berkheimer Obituary

Visit the Nelson Funeral Home - Park Ridge website to view the full obituary.

Roger Alan Berkheimer, 77, of Middletown Pennsylvania, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 15, 2026. Born in Harrisburg on April 29, 1948, to the late Donald and Mildred (Brinser) Berkheimer, Roger was a lifelong man of faith and a proud graduate of the Middletown Area High School Class of 1966.

From a young age, Roger embodied a tireless work ethic, juggling multiple paper routes and neighborhood jobs. This discipline transitioned into a storied athletic career. A standout "Blue Raider," Roger excelled in football, wrestling, and baseball, ultimately serving as captain of all three varsity sports his senior year. He continued his streak of excellence at Frederick Military Academy, where he achieved a perfect 15-0 wrestling season, and later at Shippensburg University. At Ship, Roger was a four-year starter for the football team, a co-captain, and an active member of Tau Kappa Epsilon. It was during his college years that he met the love of his life, Susan Ingram.

After serving six years in the Army Reserves and earning his BS degree in Social Sciences, Roger began his career as an educator and coach in Middletown. In 1977, Roger began a long and successful career on the railroad. He worked with distinction for Conrail and Norfolk Southern in roles ranging from Locomotive Engineer to Training Officer. In 1979, Roger and Susie were blessed with their daughter, Rebecca Anne, who remained a source of immense pride throughout his life.

In his retirement, Roger found joy in the simple pleasures: a good meal, his exquisite collection of model trains, and cheering on the Penn State Nittany Lions, the Eagles, and the Phillies. He never lost his love for a classic Western rerun or a quiet afternoon at home with his cherished dogs.

Roger’s final wish was to express his deepest gratitude to everyone who touched his life over the last 77 years. He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan (Ingram) Berkheimer, and his daughter, Rebecca Berkheimer. He was the dear brother of Sylvia Devoe, Donna Gutierrez, and the late John Berkheimer. He will be deeply missed by his many nieces and nephews and a community that respected him as a leader, a mentor, and a friend.

A memorial service will be held in late spring, with the date and time to be announced. Inurnment will take place at the Middletown Cemetery.

In memory of Roger Alan Berkheimer, please consider making a donation to one of the following charities:

American Heart Association

American Diabetes Association

Chicagoland Dog Rescue

National Kidney Foundation

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

Nelson Funeral Home - Park Ridge

820 Talcott Road, Park Ridge, IL 60068

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