Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Kenneth Berkman Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Berkman
February 24, 2020
We love and miss all of you. You are always in our hearts. Donald & Sandy
Jillian Berkman
February 2, 2009
I just want to thank everyone who has written in this book. It really means so much to us. I love reading the stories people have and learning about people grandpa ken touched who I never had a chance to meet. We love you grandpa. Know that we always think of you. I miss you
-Jillian
Hannah Berkman
March 2, 2008
I just want to thank whoever 'anonymous' is who sponsored this guestbook so that it will stay online for another year-- i miss my grandpa ken so much and this guestbook keeps me feeling connected, so thank you. I love reading all the stories and comments of people who knew him and knew how special he was.
Grandpa, I can't believe it's been a year without you. It has been so hard and we all miss you so much.
My show (Kiss Me Kate-- gk's and my favorite play) opens this Friday and I know how much he would love to be able to see me up there. I can't wait to do him proud.
-Hannah
Helga(Marcus) Stein
March 1, 2008
I remember Ken as one of the true "shining lights" of our high school class..I will always remember his smile and his wit!
My condolences to his family and friends.
Peter Sullivan
February 29, 2008
Not all leprechauns are Irish. I have seen proof. Tapping his finger playfully in the air on an imaginary Grocho cigar, Ken would snarl, “Last night I shot an elephant in my pajamas . . .” . . . You know the rest, but knowing the rest was what made it funny. Ken Berkman was funny.
Excited over an idea, he’d ask you to follow him quickly to his office. Feigning a limp and hunched over, he’d playfully say, glancing over his shoulder, “Walk this way.” You, of course (understanding the old gag), would be expected to similarly feign a limp, and walk that way. We all walked that way, and glad for it.
Ken loved his partners, his employees, and their kids, the clients, and, even more than a good joke, the quest – the good fight for justice and right. He never met a windmill that didn’t deserve a good joust.
My son was recently accepted to the Cooper Union – a very good art school. When I told Ken, he threw his arms around me and hugged me like a son. Ken touched people.
Ken loved his dogs and was long on the board of the Guide Dog Foundation.
Shortly after Kens passing, I stood on the shore of Northport Harbor at the end of Main Street, early in the morning, thinking of my lost friend. The shore was shrouded in cold mist – the ducks and sea gulls sitting quietly on floating shards of ice. There was no one around. As I turned to leave, out of the mist came one of Ken’s beloved guide dog puppies in training, his distinctive yellow jacket cutting through the mist. The proud little puppy dutifully stopped his mistress next to me at the steep curb, he seemed to turn to look back at me, then stepped up and led the women down the street, around the corner and out of sight. (Good night Mrs. Kalabash…)
“Why do you follow him? - Aldonza asked Sancho Panza of his Don Quixote?”. “Oh, that's easy to explain,” Panza replied, “It's because... because...?I like him, I really like him.” Aldonza scolded, “?It doesn't make any sense!” ?Sancho replied, “?That's because you're not a squire. . . I'll tell all the world proudly ?I'm his squire! I'm his friend!”
“Farewell and good cheer, Oh my brave cavalier, Ride onward to glorious strife. ?I swear when you're gone, I'll remember you well, for all of the rest of my life.” ?
Peter Sullivan?
So . . . . tap your finger on an imaginary cigar and repeat after me: “How he got in my pajamas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ., I’ll never know.”
Steve grossman
February 29, 2008
I had the pleasure of being a classmate
of Ken's at FHHS, class of '50 for 3
yrs. A fine student, leader, and blessed with a great sense of humor, I was proud to count Ken among my friends. We met again later in life and
found that we shared a hobby together.
Helpful, incisive, and affable, my
life was enhanced by this association. His charisma and charm
shall never be forgotten.
Andrew Roth
February 29, 2008
A year has passed so quickly. I cannot forget the many times that you visited my office with stories of sports past or your granddaughters accomplishments. I truly miss you and your tremendous energy.
Rosemarie Ocello
February 27, 2008
It is February 27th, 2008 and I can't believe it has been one year since Ken has left us - but unfortunately it is true. My memories of him are still so vivid and I try to talk about him and laugh about something he did or said at least once a day - not only in the office but at home too as he is like a member of my family. I will never forget him and I will continue to miss him for as long as I live for he was a great influence on my life for the past 23 years. I pray that the day I meet my maker Ken will be there to greet me with his great humor, drama and charm.
Marie Marzullo
February 26, 2008
"An open letter to Ken"
Dear Ken,
I cannot believe a year has gone by since I last saw you. A year filled with a sound of silence that was never heard before at BHPP. I know you are looking down from heaven on your family and friends and all those who fill the desks at BHPP. You have left a great void which I have greatly felt since your passing. I miss your wonderful smile and the humor which I feel was so much your trademark. I will never forget you. Love, Marie.
Cheryl Fenn
December 22, 2007
I know that I wrote here before, but it has been almost a year now, and I want Ken's family to know that we still think of him and them. We miss him, as I am sure you still do even more, and I pray that God will still comfort you all, especially at this first holiday season without the backbone of your family.
At the firm's Christmas party, Steven Peddy credited those of us at the firm with a familial caring and support of each other as we all dealt with Ken's loss. I believe that it was Ken who fostered and inspired this family caring at the firm, and I hope it will not diminish in years to come without him there.
Be blessed, all of you.
granddaughter Berkman
July 20, 2007
Dear Grandpa,
I see one of my cousins beat me to it... but I feel like I need to write something here just to make an appearance. You would appreciate that-- making an appearance. You always did. When you would step out onto the street with me, holding my hand, I always felt like the world revolved around us. I know that sounds dumb but it was like nothing else mattered because I felt so safe and so happy with you. I miss you everyday and use you as motivation for everything I work hard on. I'll love you forever,
your "rosie"
Pamela Kennedy
April 26, 2007
Today, was the first I had heard of Mr. Berkman's passing. I want to extend my deepest sympthy to his family. I worked for BHPP for just one year but it was with out a doubt one of the best experiances of my life. I can still remember his smile and warm hello when he got off the elevator. Again my prayers are with his family.
April 17, 2007
Grandpa Ken,
I've checked this book probably every day reading the stories about all these people you touched. All I want to write is how great a person you were. Every single person wrote that, but it doesn't seem enough. I feel like I must write every day to see how much I loved you, or how funny you were. You will never be forgotten.
I love you
Sandy,Donald,Dani & Zeke Roeser
March 19, 2007
Dear Irene, Eric, Michael and Richard-
We just heard about Ken's passing this past week. We are saddened and diminished by his absence. And although we haven't seen you in years, our memories of the times we spent together remain fresh and sweet. Ken was not only a good man but also an exceptional human being.
We would like to let you know that we hold you in our hearts and will never forget Ken as we have never forgotten any of you.
He is surely hearing the "music of the spheres" on some wonderful astral plane.
Sending our love to the entire family.
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Dandona
March 12, 2007
We are totally at a loss for words which express our heartfelt sympathy on the passing of a great friend who went out of his way to help people. Ken's affable nature would draw everyone, young and old, towards him whether he was at work or at a social event. He not only touched the lives of his near and dear ones, but also of people he encountered in his everyday life. His compassionate, sensitive, thoughtful and caring nature placed him in a league of his own. Ken has indeed left fond memories for us and he will truly be missed.
Judge Chaikin
March 9, 2007
News of Ken's death today fills me with profound sadness. I met Ken when he appeared before the North Hempstead Town Board in 2002. His his quick wit, intelligence, and charm were readily apparent. Later, as a member of the firm, I came to know Ken's compassion, integrity, and commitment to his family and to the firm were unparalleled. Ken's passing is, indeed, a great loss. I offer my sincere condolences.
Carol Spatafora
March 9, 2007
Good bye Ken. Working for you over the past 13 years was a great experience. Thank you.
Rita Reidel
March 8, 2007
No expression of sympathy can lighten the grief that has come to Ken's family, friends, colleagues and employees. We must find a measure of consolation in the realization that Ken lived a life enriched by the love and respect of all who were fortunato to have known him. I will always cherish the memory of his smile, kindness and understanding.
Rosemarie Ocello
March 7, 2007
I was Ken's trusted and loving assistant for 23 year. After so many years, Ken referred to me as his "office wife", but I was more like his mother - giving him advice, even when he didn't ask for it. After so many years, we became good friends. To be sure, Ken was a taskmaster and a perfectionist and when he got a bee in his bonnet, watch out....he pursued it relentlessly! All day long, I heard, "Roe, get me this; Roe, do that; Roe, get me so and so on the phone, but believe me, what I would give to hear him call my name again! The best part of working with Ken was his stories - they were always humourous (even sometimes silly), but he made me and everyone around us laugh all day. He made work fun and I will miss him terribly. He always talked about his grandchildren and their accomplishments to anyone who would listen to him. He was so proud of them and of course, his sons too. What I most admired about Ken was his deep love and devotion to his lovely wife, Irene (who I adore). Theirs was a match made in heaven. Ken was also a good friend to me. Anytime I had a problem, he was there for me, like I was his own. My most sincere condolences to Irene, Eric, Michael and Richard, as well as his beautiful granddaughters. Always know that I will be there for them.
i love my grandpa
March 6, 2007
gary modell
March 6, 2007
Ken Berkman always had a smile for you in the morning along with a friendly hello. He will surely be missed as one of the nicest people one could have the pleasure to know.
Tracy Alterio
March 6, 2007
For many years I have visited BHPP to see my mom at work and I was always greeted with open arms by such a wonderful and caring man, my mom's boss Ken. He was a warm and loving person and also hilarious. He treated my family just like his own. I will miss him very much just like I know my mom will. Rest in Peace you will never be forgotten.
James Pedowitz
March 5, 2007
Ken reminded me that we first met in the early 50!s when his father introduced me to him after I was transfered to the Title Guarantee office in Jamaica.This happened in 1992 when my nephew, Steven Peddy suggested that instead of retiring at the young age of 77, that I join the firm as Counsel.
Ken was extremely gracious,as he is with everyone that he meets.
His exuberance about his grand-children is awesome. He always kept me up to date on how well my grand-daughters Elizabeth and Emily were doing at their tennis matches at Briarcliff Manor High School, and what good friends his grand-daughter Hannah was with Emily, her doubles partner on the team. He rarely missed any of their matches.
It was always a pleasure to work with him on a matter at the office. He was a true professional , and treated you as a professional.
I will miss him as a person and as a colleague.His personality was like a battery of floodlights.It brightened up the entire office.
The funeral service was one of the finest that Ihave ever attended, and reflected the love and affection betweenhis children, grand-children and himself.
Jim Pedowitz
JEANA A. ROBINSON
March 5, 2007
A GREAT PRESENCE WHO WILL BE DEARLY MISSED -- WE ALL LOVED HIM. GOD BLESS
Ken in Vermont; one of his favorite spots.
March 4, 2007
Andrea (Moll) Webb
March 4, 2007
I was a friend of Richard & Michael's when we were all at Harborfields HS. I am so sorry for your loss, he was a great man who will always be remembered and missed. My sympathies go out to all of you.
Kevin Hogan
March 4, 2007
Terribly saddened to hear this news. I knew the Berkmans well during my high school years, when I was friends with Richard and Michael, and spent many days and evenings at their home. Ken was a vivacious, wonderful guy, the kind of guy one would wish for in a father if one could choose. My sincere condolences to Irene, Richard, Michael and Eric. I know I speak for many when I say that no matter how long ago Ken may have touched my life, I'll remember him always.
Shirley Henschel
March 4, 2007
Remembered fondly from Forest Hills High School, Class of 1950. My sympathy to his family.
March 4, 2007
Alex Horne
March 3, 2007
Ken was one of the most popular members of our high school class. At our 50th reunion in 2000, he was the master of ceremonies, a role he performed with wit and aplomb. A great guy, who will be sorely missed.
Julian "Cookie" Jacobs
March 3, 2007
I was a classmate and fraternity brother of Ken at Cornell. I spoke to him after many years for the first time this past year and as He said we "shmoozed". My everlasting memory of him from college is the first joke He told me when we were freshman. I am sure they have made a place on stage for him in Gahn Aden.
Pamm Peterson
March 3, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Berkman family. We have been friends with the Berkmans for a long while. A very caring and loving family. Irene, Richard, Stacy ,Jillian, Sarah we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Pamm Richard, Rebecca Hynda, Amy and Matt Peterson.
My father enjoyed his life to the fullest.
March 3, 2007
Anonymous Friend
March 3, 2007
Ken will never be forgotten. He made an impression on so many people's lives. When I think back to my memories of Ken, I only have happy ones. I think of his smile or him telling a joke. He was the only partner who would stop and chat with his employees. He was genuinely interested in "how you were doing".I also think of how respected and admired he was. I know my day was brightened many times after a hello from Ken. I'll miss him.
Howard Morgan
March 2, 2007
Ken was our highly respected Senior Class President at FHHS Clas of '50. He will be sorely missed. Deepest condolences to the family. Ken, rest in peace.
Fred & Barbara Kruger
March 2, 2007
We were shocked and saddened to learn of Ken's passing. At this time, we look back and remember the laughter, ideas, and conversations we shared. Ken will be missed.
richard berkman
March 2, 2007
Thank you to everyone for your kind words and thoughts. This has indeed been a very difficult time for our family. However, we are secure in our knowledge that our father loved us and that he knew every moment of every day how much his wife, his sons, and his grandchildren loved him.
Bonnie Monteleone
March 2, 2007
My deepest condolences to the Berkman family. I worked at BHPP for three years. I remember Mr. Berkman fondly. Mostly I rememher is when he spoke he held your attention with his quick wit and sense of humor. May he rest in peace.
Tara Fenn
March 2, 2007
I have never had the honor to meet Kenneth Berkman, but have heard of nothing but his incredible kindness to my mother and others. I have learned that he was a wonderful man and that the world, and his family will be missing him dearly.
Cheryl Fenn
March 1, 2007
Ken was the best boss someone could have, a great lawyer, full of humorous stories, and a gentleman. As Steven Peddy said at the memorial service, Ken cared about all his employees and their personal lives as well as their professional lives. I have only been there a little over a year, as a floater, but feel as though I have known Ken for a much longer time.I still can't believe I won't hear his laughter, and see him coming and going in the office anymore. The world, our office, and his family have lost a great man. My deepest sympathies and prayers of comfort go to all the members of his family, especially his dear wife, and to his assistant, Roe, who I know will miss him almost as much as his family.
Ken's Employee in
March 1, 2007
What a testament to Ken. It's wonderful to see all these loving messages about Ken. Everyone who knew him had a funny story they could tell you. He really broke down the barrier between employer/employee. He treated everyone with the same respect and thoughfulness. There will never be another one like him.
Mari-Jo Sperling
March 1, 2007
Words cannot express the deep sadness that is felt over the sudden loss of such a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children and grandchildren, all of whom he loved so much and spoke about so often. As I walk around the office, still dazed and confused by the events of late, I feel, at any moment, he will come around the corner with his great big grin, sparkling blue eyes and a joke or two about his latest encounter with the copy machine... only to be faced with the reality that we will not see him again in this life. His spirit, however, will remain at BHPP always and the legacy of Ken Berkman will live in our hearts forever. Although his presence on this Earth made him larger than life, the impression he left on all our hearts will sustain us until God lets us meet with him again. And, oh, what a story I'm sure he'll have to tell us about his journey to the Heavens...
God Bless the Berkman family always.
Madeline and Eddie Froehlich
March 1, 2007
Eddie and I wish to extend our sympathy to Ken's Family. We knew Ken when he was President of the Harborfields School Board.
ARLENE FERRO
March 1, 2007
My sincerest sympathies to the Berkman family. I worked with Ken for a number of years at BHPP. He had a great sense of humor and was one of the few who shared my political views so we had some pretty interesting chats. He will be missed by all.
Arlene Ferro
Wendy (Grifka) Bader
March 1, 2007
I remember Mr. Berkman to be very kind, caring and warm. My deepest sympathies go out to Mrs. Berkman and her sons at this terrible time of great loss.
RIP Kenneth Berkman
March 1, 2007
Ken was an attorney for 50 years and a true gentleman for 74 years. He will be missed not only by his loving family but also by his employees. There was no better employer than Ken Berkman. He was a kind friend and upstanding man.
Rest in Peace Ken Berkman
March 1, 2007
....and for those of you who want to know what happened to the doors, THEY BROKE UP WHEN JIM MORRISON DIED!....That was Ken Berkman's famous line. He had the best sense of humor and will be missed terribly.
FRANCES ENG
March 1, 2007
My deepest sympathies to the Berkman family. I worked at the firm for 5 years and I remember Ken as the life of the holiday parties. He will be sorely missed.
ANN BERGENFELD
March 1, 2007
I WORKED AT THE LAW FIRM FOR 5 YEARS. I HAD LIMITED CONTACT WITH KEN BERKMAN, BUT I ALWAYS SAW HIM AS KIND, AND VERY HUMOROUS, AND A REAL GENTLEMAN. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES TO HIS FAMILY, AND TO HIS PARTNERS @BHPP.
Chris Coiro
March 1, 2007
My deepest sympathies to the entire Berkman family. I had the pleasure of working at BHPP for a few years and I have nothing but great things to say about Ken. He always had a smile on his face and treated everyone with the utmost respect. He will be missed.
joyann Green
March 1, 2007
I worked for ken berkman for many years, he's always kind patient,and he had a great sense of humour he will be sorely missed my sympathy goes out to his family.
joyann green
March 1, 2007
I worked for Ken Berkman for 10 years, He was a Kind and good person he will be sorely missed my sympathy goes out to his family.
Andrea Zullo
March 1, 2007
Ken was a wonderful, thoughtful man. I used to work at Berkman, Henoch, Peterson & Peddy PC and saw this on a daily basis. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Kevin Barry
March 1, 2007
I will always remember Ken Berkman as a first rate attorney and fine gentleman. Please accept my deepest sympathies
Rest In Peace Ken
March 1, 2007
To The Berkman Family,
I want to express my deepest sympathies to you at this time. I worked at Berkman Henoch for many years and personally knew Ken to be the most wonderful, kind, loving human being. He had a wonderful sense of humor and always had an upbeat personality. I know he made me smile when I spoke to him. He was a gentle, kind man who loved his family tremendously and was extremely proud of his family. May he rest in peace...he'll be sorely missed.
Cynthia Roth
March 1, 2007
A gentleman and kind soul, Ken will be sorely missed by all.
Showing 1 - 56 of 56 results
Make a Donation
in Kenneth Berkman's name
Memorial Events
for Kenneth Berkman
How to support Kenneth's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kenneth Berkman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
