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Howard Berk Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Howard Berk
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Bonny Urban
May 18, 2022
Dr. Berk was my doctor for over ten years. He was the most wonderful doctor and human being. I was a 18 years old at my first appointment and spoke so highly of him that my mom and sister soon became his patients too. He was kind, compassionate and incredibly knowledgeable. He held my hand through some very tough times. I still think about his humor and expertise and have always, since that first appointment, looked for a bit of Dr. Berk in every physician.
Cileane White
February 6, 2020
I remember Dr. Berk fondly. He was my doctor for 10 years, and was the first dr who EVER showed kindness, empathy and compassion for me as a patient, always taking my hand to put me at ease and sharing a story or two. I now look for that feeling of warmth from drs that he always left me with. He will be forever missed
Lesley Barlette
May 11, 2019
Dr Berk delivered my first child Claudia in January 2000. I remember I was so scared and he sat on my bed and gave me a foot rub to calm me down! He was a beautiful man and my husband and I will be forever thankful to him.
December 8, 2017
Dr Berk was my doctor 40 years ago when I lived in New York. He was wonderful. He will be missed dearly.
joanne gold
March 31, 2017
I was dr. Beck's patient for 30 years. I agree with all the beautiful expressions of love here. He was a magnificent doctor and person. I think of him often and he is sorely missed. My condolences to his family.
He treated me always with kindness and concern. I can never forget his humor, expertise, and his whimsical office that I always enjoyed.
April 16, 2011
A date never to be forgotten. March 27th 2009
February 19, 2011
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY,
YOU ALWAYS HAD THINGS IN YOUR OFFICE TO CELEBRATE SPECIAL OCCASIONS..
I WAS ONE OF YOUR PATIENTS THAT APPRECIATED THAT SO MUCH.IT MADE ALL OF THE OFFICE SMILE.THEY LOVED YOUR LITTLE BOWL OF VALENTINES DAY CHOCOLATE THAT YOUR SHARED.
YOU ALWAYS FOUND A REASON TO CELEBRATE LIFE.
FEBRUARY 14TH 2011
February 19, 2011
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY,
YOU ALWAYS HAD THINGS IN YOUR OFFICE TO CELEBRATE SPECIAL OCCASIONS..
I WAS ONE OF YOUR PATIENTS THAT APPRECIATED THAT SO MUCH.IT MADE ALL OF THE OFFICE SMILE.THEY LOVED YOUR LITTLE BOWL OF VALENTINES DAY CHOCOLATES THAT YOU SO READILY SHARED.
YOU ALWAYS FOUND A REASON TO CELEBRATE LIFE.YOU ARE GREATLY MISSED.
FEBRUARY 14TH 2011
Esther Borenstein
January 31, 2011
So sorry to hear of Doctor Berks passing.
I knew the large practice was no more, but did not realize why exactly.
He always cared with a warmth and a smile. He got me through some very difficult pregnancies and delivered three of my six children. He actually saved my life on more than one occasion.
He is thought of very fondly and will always be a part of my life.
May his family be comforted to know he meant alot to all of his patients and an exemplary Doctor and an even more special human being.
January 30, 2011
A STAR IN THE SKY HAS BEEN NAMED FOR YOU
January 30, 2011
NEVER FORGOTTEN
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Y.C.F.
January 23, 2011
NO LIGHT SHINES BRIGHT ENOUGH WITHOUT YOUR PRESENCE
ANONYMOUS
January 23, 2011
YOUR FLAME SHALL NEVER DIE.
HB.-H.B.
Cristina Soto
November 29, 2010
What a remarkable doctor and human being Dr. Berk was...never failing to shed light on the darkest of situations, whether it be professional or personal. I loved that you were always amused by the "funny socks" I wore every time I would visit your office,so I would wear them especially for you. At a time when it seems almost impossible to see a doctor within the same week, I find myself missing you more...you never turned me away. You are deeply loved and missed Dr. Berk. May God continue to bless you in the afterlife as we have been blessed to have you in our lives. My condolences and blessings to the Berk Family.
July 26, 2010
He was my respected and beloved doctor for 50 years. He is dearly missed. My heartfelt thoughts are with his family. Peace be to his soul. Marcy Wilson Burke
Sheryl Springer
June 29, 2010
I just heard that Dr Berk had passed. I had the utmost respect for the man who could talk to people with respect and understanding. He was a very dear person.
Anita Picarella
June 27, 2010
To the family of Howard Berk, or Howie, as he was affectionately called - I've only heard today. I've known your husband, father and grandfather since 1972. We were all fortunate to have him in our lives for so long. His image will remain indelibly imprinted in my mind. My sincerest sympathy and God speed.
Gayle Baron
May 3, 2010
Somehow I missed the notice of Dr. Berk's passing away. I am so sad to think of not having him in my life. Last week when I realized I was overdue for a follow-up appointment , I attempted to make one and was shocked to learn that he is no longer with us.
Howie was my doctor for almost 45 years. He was kind,compassionate,extremely competent and treated every situation with warmth and humor.
When I was delievering my son Randolph I was in labor for 27 hours and had to have a C sectiom because the baby was in distress. My beloved Dr. Berk rode with me in the elevator to the delivery room, introduced me to his team and held my hand and sang to me as I was put under.His confident smile made me know that my baby would be fine.
My deepest condolences go out to his family. He is the type of doctor who sets the bar for those following (hopefully) in his footsteps. Gayle
May 2, 2010
True Love Should Never End... TBF
April 30, 2010
True LSNHE xoxoxoxox YC
January 29, 2010
H.B./H.B.
Nailah McCray-Brown
January 17, 2010
Dr.H. Berk was more than my employer, and definitely was more than my doctor(he helped deliver my daughter 10yrs ago) he was a friend, and although I lost contact with him once I left NY OB/GYN there was never a day when he was never in my thoughts and my prayers. It saddened me to find out that that someone I cared about had passed away a whole year ago. It goes to show how short life is and never take for granted the special people who were placed in our lives, and please, oh please always take the time to call, write a letter or send an e-mail to the people who have touched our lives in some way, just let them know you care and you appreciate all their hard work and kindness through out the years. To the Berk family my deepest condolences are with you.
zina charlip
November 20, 2009
It has taken me until now to be able to write this. His death still shakes me. I was a patient of Howard's for 30 years, right out of college into the working world. He was refered to me by a friend. As soon as I met him, there was no doubt that he was a wonderful doctor. There was no way that I would leave his practice for anyone else. When I did see another ob-gyn after his death, I'd realized I'd been spoiled. He is unreplaceable. He delivered my children,and saw me through many trying times. My trust in him was complete.I loved him, my family loved him. I will always remember his office, the things and pictures in it. My deep and heartfelt sympathies to his family and those he left behind. His death leaaves a hole in their lives, the lives of his patients, the medical world and humanity itself.
October 21, 2009
I recently located Dr. Berk's card, annoucing his new address this week. I bacame excited and immeadiately scheduled my appointment. What disappointment and sadness I felt when the receptionist informed me of his passing. I will never forget the pictures and paraphenlia that decorated his office.
October 20, 2009
My sincere condolences to the Berk family. I was a patient of Dr. Berk for about 8 years. There will never be another doctor like him! I will deeply miss him.
Marina Freyre
October 11, 2009
The Eskimo has fifty-two names for snow because it is important to them.
Your importance to your patients and the world as a human being had many more.
KA.B.
September 22, 2009
Your optimism for the future was reflected in your eyes, and in the eyes of so many who were lovingly cared for and guided by you.This was part of your gift and will be part of your lasting legacy amongst many more wonderful things that made you the person you were.
carol goldsmith
August 21, 2009
I was a patient of Dr. Howard Berk for 47 years,and learned of his passing many months after it happened. I recently spoke to Dr. Ilona Hertz, who Dr. Berk had referred me to many years ago. She told me about this place that I could express my heartfelt sympathy to you, the family of my beloved Dr. He helped me through many frightening times and wonderful times in my life. He knew me well, and when I was concerned about anything at all, he put me at ease. All I needed was to hear his voice and I felt better. I have been reading all the wonderful letters that have been sent to you by other patients, and the tears are streaming down my face. Perhaps a little humor would be good right about now. When my son was born, 40 years ago he had reddish hair. As a nurses aid was dressing my little boy to go home, she was muttering under her breath, " Dr. Berk delivers so many red haired babies!" I told him about this and it gave him a good chuckle. He will be greatly missed. He had a way of making you feel like you were his most important patient. I'm sure everyone felt the same way. I hope these letters will give you all some comfort. He was loved by all and cannot be replaced.
m efremov
July 30, 2009
I was a patient for some years and then became a colleague to Howie. A magnificient person who always had time for a big or little problem. For twenty eight years I sent patients to him with gynecological probelms and unfailingly, they returned happier, healthier and thanks me for the referral. A man for others, a true humanist and a great role model. I had to tell patients in my office who were his patients as well, and they wept and talked about what he meant to them. most recently, during a house call on an infirm patient, one of her neighbors came in to share some of her memories going back for many years. She described how she had free care during a pregnancy when she and her husband had had financial reverses many eyas ago. That baby is now a woman in her forties With tears in her eyes, she related touching anecdotes of how this man touched her life for good.
June 21, 2009
June 21, 2009
On this Father's Day, there is a shining star in our universe, but missing on our earth today. Dr Howard
Berk left us much too soon but he left an indeliable mark on so many lives.
I am Sue Charney Fischer... I was a patient in the '70's & '80's, I am a dear friend of Annette Frezer, for almost 40 years, his nurse and devoted co-worker --- I employed Lisa Berk at my model agency in the early '80's and Dr. Berk was my friend, my doctor, my source of comfort, laughter,a true caring man and a sense of what a real doctor is all about -- my father was a general practioner in Brooklyn and was the kind of man and doctor Dr Berk was --- a devoted, real, loving, caring,and dedicated doctor with all the right values and reasons for taking that oath.
I remember, I admire, I respect and I miss my Dr Howard Berk and I pray his family will find comfort in his legacy
of the difference he made in so many lives.
May God Bless him and may he always know what a treasure he was to so many
and how much he will be missed. May God bless those who loved him so much and may his memory always and forever be as a blessing --- for he was a blessing here in this world we continue to live in --- with a giant void............. Sue Charney Fischer
June 18, 2009
June 18 - I just reread all of the entries about Dr. Berk and it is so evident that all of us who have written in this guest book have similar feelings about him.....it is such a tribute to him that we all were touched by his compassion, his sense of humor, his strength and certainly by his professional excellence. He made life seem good every time we visited - no matter how sad his own life was at the time. He was truly a special man and I do not think many people enjoy such a unanimity of good thoughts and love as he did. (Lisa and your family, we will never forget him as he occupies a special place in our hearts also.)
Kathy Babkow
David & Pamela James
May 14, 2009
My name is Pammie James. I am a long-time friend of Dr. Berk’s daughter, Lisa. I wanted to share a few fond sentiments as we remember and honor a wonderful Father, Doctor and Friend to so many. I only had to meet “Howard” one time to know that his greatness was beyond measure. In his company, you felt comfortable and your guard never had to go up. You talked and he listened. He put you at ease.. You were his object of concern. He made you feel special. Lisa, is a lot like her Dad. The apple who hadn’t fallen far from the tree at all! You see, I think Lisa, much like her Dad has the biggest heart in the entire state of New York and New Jersey combined! From the moment I met her I treasured Lisa friendship, and still do till this day. She also possesses an incredible Long Island, NY sense of humor, again, just like her Dad. I believe this enabled them as they went through some incredibly difficult times as a family. Anyone that has had the privilege of knowing the Berk family knows how incredibly close they all are to each other. It was without hesitation that they always had each other’s best interest. Each doing what was right in their hearts and in God’s sight. When tragedy struck at home, they remained strong. Their love and devotion to each other grew even more, making it impossible to fracture this family. Something else Lisa has from her loving father is an uncanny gift to offer great empathy when involved with others in need of her support. Dr. Berk possessed an enormous amount of dignity and grace and an innate ability to see thru a problem whilst coming up with a solution without skipping a beat. Dr. Berk led his family by setting an example- one that is worth following. He was solid as a rock, and his love for his family never waned. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family constantly Lisa. Thank you for sharing your wonderful Daddy with us. We love you so much! We see him in you in more ways than you can know.. I know that would make him happy. You are a reflection of his love, and his love continues on forever in you and so many reminiscences to ponder.
All our love always, David and Pamela
Karen Koppelman
May 7, 2009
For the past 40 years I have been blessed to be cared for by Dr.Howard Berk. He was a brilliant physician, a compassionate human being, and an extradordinary man. He made a difference. He touched the lives of so many. We had many conversations over the past 40 years about this journey that we are all on--this journey called life. He was so passionate about his work, the world, and mostly his family. We shared our highs and our lows. He was literally a life saver and a life giver. I so clearly recall his bright smile and twinkling eyes when he gave me my greatest gifts. I can still hear him saying, "Karen, do you want to meet your son?" and "Karen, do you want to meet your daughter?" He was part of the most important happenings in my life and my family legacy with Howie contined when my daughter became a young woman and also his patient and she adored him as well. Throughout all these years I have seen the pictures on his office wall grow and change along with his family--his baseball memorabilia increase-- his African masks relocate. I will always remember that picture and letter to Grandpa hanging on the wall-a tribute from his grandson saying, "I love you Grandpa." And so proud of their grandpa should his grandchildren and children be for he has truly left an enormace impact upon all who have had the honor to know him.I have traveled with him from Beth Israel Hospital to Park Ave and 64th To East 37th to East 32nd and East 30th. I felt his warmth, his love, his zest for life. He enhanced the world and has left it a better place because of his presence in it. Just as his family and loved ones will think of him each day, so will I for there is a very special place in my heart that is reserved soley for him. My own family rests in Beth David and each time I visit, I will also visit my beloved Dr. Berk. There are no words of consolation that are adequate to describe this overwhelmingly devasting loss to both his family and the world. What can be greater than a man that gives life and perpetuates all of the values that make our world a loving place in which to live? My prayers are with you with love and gratitude for sharing this remarkable man with all of us who loved him so.
Marion Silverstein
May 7, 2009
When I found this site, and I count myself lucky to have done so, I felt compelled to write a small tribute to Howard,my devoted and stellar Doctor for more tnan thirty-five yeaars,and some words of consolation to his loving family. With that, I thought that it's purpose was served,but I was mistaken. I have returned here many times in this past month to read and re-read entries from other women,virtually all of them patients,like me. It has become something of an informal support group for me and, I would venture to guess for many,if not all of them, as well, as we struggle to make peace with losing Howard so suddenly and too soon.
May he rest in peace
Marion Silverstein
Judy Isserlis
May 6, 2009
To the family of Dr. Berk:
I just found out today - May 6. I am 64 yerars old today and was a patient of Dr. Berk from the time I was 28. I will miss him terribly. He was a great doctor and a wonderful man. My condolences to the family and to his colleagues. Judy Isserlis
Ellen Browne
May 5, 2009
I just hear about Dr Berk's passing. I'm deeply sadden he was a great doctor and just a pleasure to know. My deepest sympathy to the family. God Bless
May 4, 2009
My name is Lisa. I am Howard Berk's daughter. I wanted to write to everyone who has written and will be writing into this legacy in remembrance of my father.
Your memories, thoughts, and condolences mean so much to me and to my family. Our hearts are warmed by your words and the expressions of your love and admiration for my father. He was the most incredible father who gave me tremendous love, guidance, friendship and support. It means so much to me to know that he shared his love and guidance with his patients, his friends and co-workers as well.
In synagogue this morning my mother showed me a phrase (not written in the Torah) and said, "This is how daddy always felt." I want to share it with all of you.
"Despite a planet overrun by humans, I still find the birth of every child a mystery wrapped in holiness."
As we all know, my father loved his work and cherished his life, family and friends. He is responsible for delivering thousands of babies and for touching us with his enormous spirituality and strength. It is so special to know that he will live on in so many of our hearts forever.
Thank you for your memories and for your love for him which will keep his name alive and his soul eternal forever.
You are in my heart forever.
I love you Daddy!
I miss you!
xoxo
Angela Giglio-Walker
April 30, 2009
I just found out about Dr. Berk's passing. I am so sad, and will miss him so much. Words cannot describe how truly wonderful Dr. Berk was. This world is a better place for having him here. I know he made a difference in so many people's lives for just having known him. He was truly special and can never be replaced. I feel blessed for having known him and having him as my doctor. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
ann krupp
April 27, 2009
I was so very saddened to learn that Dr Berk had passed away. What a wonderful human being and doctor! He helped me through many tough times with kindness compassion. He always made me feel that everything had a solution ...he always made me feel special. His knowledge and experience were only matched by his compassion.
What a huge loss to the world..sincere oondolences to his amily!
ann krupp
April 27, 2009
Thank you so much Dr Berk for being such a great doctor! I had the privilege of being your patient through many personal hard times over 20 plus years..
you always made me feel okay no matter what.. you were always there taking whatever time it would take to explain things to me..never talking down to me as some doctors do.
heart and soul and love and humor ..that was you! special from the moment I met you..It was an honor to know you.
How lucky I was to have known such a special man/ Thank you and Godspeed
carol heischober
April 27, 2009
Dear Berk Family,
How do I begin? How do I express how I adored him? How do I tell you that he was not only a wonderful doctor but an unbelievable human being.
I first me Dr. Berk when I was having my first baby and Dr. Kurman told me that I would be seeing his associate too. From the first minute my husband and I walked into his office he made us feel special. When I would give him a check to pay off my bill, he would tell me to use it on going out to dinner with my husband. We would speak about so many different things. He was so proud of his family and told my husband how lucky he was to have a daughter. He delivered 3 more daughters to us. He would tell me stories of his children and what I have to look forward to. He was my confident, my hero and my friend.
When I called to tell him that my husband had passed away, he told me how sorry he was and I knew he meant it. When he told me of the passing of his daughter my heart was breaking while he was talking because I knew that he would have traded his life for hers in a heart beat.
The stories we shared in the 30 plus years I had the priveledge of knowing hime are to numerous to mention. Please know that I am so sorry for your loss and the only solice I have is knowing that he and his daughter are together.
With my deepest sympathy,
Carol Heischober
Lisa G
April 27, 2009
When I called to confirm my appointment last week, I was brokenhearted to learn that my beloved Dr. Berk had passed away. My doctor for the last 14 years, I had chosen my health plans over the years based on whether or not Dr. Berk took the insurance. There aren’t enough words to describe what an amazing person he was. His genuine care and love for his patients was evident and he represented a rare kind of doctor – one that is willing to sit and sincerely listen to his patient’s needs. He is irreplaceable and I will miss him dearly. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Berk family.
Mimi S. Daitz
April 26, 2009
I was to have seen "Howie" in March, before I left the country for three weeks. I was concerned when his office cancelled the appointment, knowing that he had had a heart attack a number of years earlier. Upon my return to NYC I called the office for a new appointment and was told the news of his death.
I had known Dr. Berk for 50 years--when I was first entrusted to his care by my father, Dr. Benjamin Segal, his mentor. What fascinates me in reading these tributes to him is that they basically say the same thing. I'd thought I was getting special treatment because of his relationship with my father--in fact, everyone got special treatment, of the kind that is very rare in medical practice today.
The sound of his voice singing "A pretty girl..." as he entered the examining room always got me smiling. And we always chatted--for as long as his busy schedule would allow.
I hope that some OB-GYN interns and residents read these notes and, equally important, saw him in action at BIH. Although our non-system of medical care in this country has made it increasingly difficult for doctors to practice as he did, I hope they realize they can follow in his foot steps if they choose to do so.
And I hope that these letters provide some solace for his family. He will be missed by us all.
SG
April 25, 2009
I, too, made the long trip into the city to see Dr. Berk even though I moved away - for all the reasons everyone said, but also because remarkably, he was always right. Tests, procedures, side effects, recovery....everything happened just the way he said it would. This made me have complete trust in him, which was a reassuring feeling and something that I've never experienced with another doctor and probably never will. I will treasure the notes he used to write me on his prescription pad - the ones that said "Happy Birthday" and the one congratulating me when I got married. I will miss his wit, his wisdom and the Broadway show tunes he sang when he entered the room. He was truly the best.
noel fair
April 25, 2009
This is my second posting but ever since I heard of Dr Berk's death, I have been thinking about him. My first child was a breech baby that Dr Berk delivered via "Natural Child Birth", no drugs. He told me to not tell the medical interns who checked on me that it was breech, he wanted them to be surprised. Also when I attended the Natural Child birth classes the teacher told me Dr Berk was the only doctor who ever took the classes to see what was taught. He was a special man.
Joan Humphreys
April 25, 2009
To the family of Dr. Berk,
What a man and what a doctor. He was kind, gentle, funny and professional at the same time. I always felt that I was his only patient. All doctors should be like Dr. Berk.
Feel so very proud that he was your father, grandfather, relative. Know that he will live in all our hearts forever.
Noel Fair
April 24, 2009
I will miss Dr Berk, He was my "base doctor" even after I moved out of the city. While other doctors came and went over the years, I saw Dr Berk twice a year for 35 years and it always was a pleasure to chat with him about my family and his family. I appreciated his medical opinion and confurred with him on various medical questions other than gyn. Once when I was in the hospital with a medical emgerency he came to visit and sat and talked to me for a half an hour. I thought I was going to see him this month, it was a shock.
April 23, 2009
April 23, 2009
I am still stunned from learning yesterday that Dr. Berk has died. He has been my doctor since 1964 - operated on me, delivered two wonderful sons and been my friend during these past 45 years. He was one of the most understanding and compassionate people I have ever met. He was thoughtful and caring in all of his dealings with patients - so rare to find in a busy physician. Over the years we had so many interesting discussions about life, family and, in recent years, about the field of medicine as I work in a large medical college in NYC. He was so proud fo his family and I always enjoyed seeing what new piece of "artwork" he had in his office from his children and then grandchildren. He was a very special person and I can only imagine how sad his family must be but they can take consolation from knowing how many people join them in their sadness. I feel honored to have known him for all these years.
Kathy Babkow, New York City
Amy Berg
April 22, 2009
Dr. Berk was the best. I was so sad to hear about his death. I will really miss him. No dr can compare.
Gretchen Weerheim
April 21, 2009
The way I had found out about the death of dear Dr. Berk was I called to make an appointment and some unfamiliar voice answered the phone and telling me that Dr. Levitton was now seeing Dr. Berk's patients. I asked what happened and she told me, quite gently, that Dr. Berk had died. This hit me like a brick and I immediately started crying. The receptionist said that everyone who didn't know and had called him had the same response. I said he was the absolute best doctor on the planet, but more than that, I'd miss him because he was such a lovely person. I've read the notes left in this guest book and I can relate a little bit to each one. He was the last of kind; a doctor who actually was interested in his patients as people and what was going on in their lives. He always remembered things about my life and asked about little details; stuff very few, if any, doctors would remember let alone take the time just to talk. And as a doctor, especially in his new location, he offered the best service, bar none. If you had an emergency, he saw you. No waiting three weeks to get an appointment. He always called you afterwards to see how you were getting along. I am still sad, always will be, and hope that someday I'll find another doctor like him. God bless his memory. His family and friends are already blessed because they had the wonderful opportunity to have him in their lives.
Christine DiMeglio
April 21, 2009
Dear Dr. Berk,
I just found out about your passing and the overwhelming sadness that I feel has not even begun to set it. You have been my friend and doctor for over 20 years. Your knowledge, caring, and humor have made me feel like I was your only patient. Yet I can see from these entires that was not the case. I am so fortunate to say that there will never be another like you. My condolences to your loved ones. Miss you.
Rita Berg
April 20, 2009
I'm so glad that I had my last checkup with Dr. Berk in February. I will always remember him telling me after my exams that I was pregnant! I would have about 50 children by now if that was the case. I will dearly miss my twice yearly visits with him and our talks about the family.
Rita Berg
April 20, 2009
I can't believe that after 35 years and 2 children, I have to find a new doctor. I really don't know of any one that could replace the competence, compassion, kindness, humor, and friendship that Dr. Berk has shown me, as well as my grown children, who both are bereft over the loss of a treasured man.
Marion Silverstein
April 18, 2009
Although I had known for about two weeks that Howard was post surgery and that the office was closed, it somehow never crossed my mind that Howard, who had conceded so little to time and age in the thirty-five years that I was his patient,would not survive. Because I never saw him except in that office, and always mindful of the enormous debt of gratitude I owed him (money,too,if truth be told-due to the many times he wrote "No Charge" on my medical form)I decided to write him a letter to tell him what he meant to me and to thank him. It took me a few days, I saw no reason to hurry, but I did do it. Walking down the street after I tossed it into the mailbox, I immediatly thought that it wasn't enough, I wrote too little. What I never thought was that I wrote too late. Impossible. Unacceptable. Howard was my standard bearer,there was no man as just, as compassionate,as generous, as strong,as loving and as giving as he was. No other Doctor could disarm a tense or frantic patient the way he could, no other Doctor had his charm and good humor.I willalways love and mourn him.
May his soul be bound up in the bonds of life
Rich Farrell
April 14, 2009
I knew Dr. Berk for many years and in my capacity as a pharmaceutical salesman called on him two to three times every month for over four years. He was always an outstanding gentleman, kind and accommodating. I considered him a friend and am greatly saddened to hear of his passing. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family.
Tiawana King
April 14, 2009
There are no words that can adequately express my gratitude, love and respect for the most awesome and compassionate doctor who graced this earth - Dr. Howard Berk. It was almost 13 years ago when he walked into the delivery room where I was laying in agonizing pain awaiting the birth of my daughter, Tiara Jazz at almost 1:00 a.m. Dr. Berk took one look at me, came over to the bed, grabbed my hand and said, "I'm going to get coffee and when I come back, we're going to have a baby." That was it. In those few words and his warm tone and expression of love, I was immediately comforted. I had been seeing him for prenatal visits and this would be the fruition of all of our chats. Throughout the past 14 years, I have found that to bring immeasurable comfort was the gift that Dr. Berk had been given to pass on to so many women and families whom he would encounter and change forever. He was a PHENOMENAL man that I cannot imagine being without. However, I am so comforted to know that he left behind such a wonderful legacy. He touched so many lives and inspired so many futures. Therefore, we know his life was not in vain. He served his purpose here on earth and has now moved on. I love you, Dr. Berk and I thank you for everything! You will be sorely missed.
Stephanie Skiba
April 13, 2009
When I first met Dr. Berk six years ago, I had an immediate adoration for him. Having graduated from the Bronx HS of Science more than 50 years before me, he always remembered me because of that, and it formed a special bond between us. His smile and his laugh will always be in my heart. Knowing that he will not be the one to deliver my children in the future is what saddens me the most. Rest in peace, Dr. Berk.
Susan Alpert
April 9, 2009
My Brother-in-Law, My Doctor, My best friend. When he told me 27 years ago that I would survive ovarian cancer, which he diagnosed, I believed him. Another Doctor told me that Dr.Berk was "trying to kill an ant with a cannon", but Howard insisted on continuing to treat me with chemotherapy. He was there for me 24/7, whenever I needed to be with someone with whom I could cry, he was there for me, assuring me and giving me hope. Because of him I am here to never forget him, always love his memory and be ever so thankful that my husband's sister had the good fortune to marry a man with such compassion, intelligence and skill.
Thank you my darling Howard for my life.
Eleanor Maillard
April 9, 2009
I have known Dr Berk since 1967. For all these years he was my doctor. I have lost not only a great doctor but a great friend. He was kind, caring and he had a wonderful sense of humor. My heart goes out to his family and since I heard about his death they have been in my prayers and will continue to be.
Janet & Gordon Berkley
April 6, 2009
We were very saddened to hear of the death of Dr Howie Berk, a long-time friend of our parents, plus a great human being. He guided us so well with his medical knowledge, but mostly with his ever-witty sense of humor.
May his family be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Toni Ayres Grekin
April 4, 2009
Living in Deposit, New York, I did not hear of the death of Howard Berk, my doctor, my friend, my rock, until a few hours ago. I met him in the ninth month of my pregnancy for my 40 year old daughter Nina. He was taking over for his mentor Dr. Segal, the well-known and well-loved leftist gynecologist. All of a sudden, instead of the storefront-like quarters of Dr. Segal, I was sent to a posh Park Avenue suite with fancy ladies in waiting talking about their daughters educations in Switzerland. It was my starving artist-Joan Baez years, and I was feeling really uncomfortable in my homemade muu-muu and gold hoops and Fred Braun sandals. I was just about to bolt and wait for the return of the legendary Segal, who was one of the first gyn's to encourage Lamaze Childbirth methods. Suddenly, the patient who had been in w/Berk for what seemed like a full hour, while the fancy ladies sat impatiently, walked out. She was poor; she was of color, she was extremely pregnant and he walked her out and hugged her publicly. That's when I fell in love with Howard Berk. That's when I understood that I wasn't crazy for checking out 7 different gyn's between my first pregnancy and this one because I was so sure there was something out there that was different, better somehow than what I had experienced the first time around. I knew just from watching that encounter, that if I was the one who needed him for an hour, I would have a doctor I could count on. A few years later we left the city for the boonies. Dr. Berk knew it cost me a fortune to get back down to the city to see him for my annual, and he made sure I never had to pay anything out of pocket for those visits. Once there,I met a childhood friend, Bonnie Fishman, in his waiting room. She asked where I lived. I replied, "I'm crazy for still coming to Berk, but I live 175 miles away". She laughed and said, "You're not crazy. I live in Los Angeles and the condition of my moving west was that I told my husband I had to come back to see Dr. Berk once a year!". There is no moment in the 40+ years of our doctor-patient/friend time together that he did not honor me, respect me -even when he thought my hippie-dippie medical ideas were off the wall, encourage me, and support me. He ALWAYS listened to me. And, in the later years, when the death of his daughter brought such pain, he honored me by allowing me to listen to him. I am so grateful for his presence in my life. If his family reads this, please know YOU have family in Deposit, New York who share the pain of this extraordinary loss. My heart is breaking as I write this, yet gladdened with the reality of how many decades of goodness he spread through his good works. Blessings to the Berk family.
Clifford Singer
April 4, 2009
Howard Berk was my friend since 1968. He will be deeply missed. My deepest condolences to his family.
Roberta Seitzman
April 3, 2009
Howard Berk,
He was my doctor and friend for 40 years. Howard delivered my two children and was a caring, loving and genuine human being. Even during difficult times and family sorrow, Howard took very good care of his patients. May he rest in peace.
Muriel Zimmerman
April 3, 2009
I am sorry to hear of Dr. Berks passing - he will always be a large part of my life. I want to wish his family my deepest sympathy.
Lisa Miller
April 2, 2009
He was a caring & gentle giant. His smile & sense of humor was an antidote in itself. I loved him & will miss him forever.
Roberta Seitzman
April 1, 2009
I was a patient and friend for over 40 years. His way of taking care of his patients will never be forgotten. Even when he was undergoing his own family tragedies, he was a caring doctor who did his very best for his patients. May he rest in peace
Roberta Seitzman, Valley Cottage, NY
April 1, 2009
i adored dr berk and his family i will miss him terribly susan bernstein
Ellen Aronson
March 31, 2009
So saddened to hear of Dr. Berk's death. His caring, down to earth, wonderful approach to life and medicine will not be soon forgotten. My healthy twin girls were born a day late and will turn 25 this June. I offer his family my condolences and know that memories of his heroic life will sustain them. He was a unique physician and gentleman! How lucky we were to have known him.
Ellen A.
Kathleen Chisman Lopez
March 30, 2009
He was my doctor for almost 40 years. Howard saw me through tough times and three wonderfull kids. His kindness and understanding will never be forgotten
Barbara Lefleur
March 30, 2009
My very special friend for over 40 years.I wish I could have been there for him as much as he was for me.He'll always have a special place in my heart. My deepest condolences to his family.
Martha Steinmetz
March 30, 2009
As my doctor for over 25 years, his concern and gentle care for me as his patient always felt genuine. He has no equal as a healer and was a very special human being. I will miss him and his sense of humor. May his family be comforted.
Patricia and Donald
March 30, 2009
Howard,
Almost 36 years ago you found our son, David, for us, so you will never be gone, not from our hearts, nor our minds, nor our prayers.
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