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Michael Berns Obituary

1943 - 2016
Michael T. Berns (1943-2016)

Michael T. Berns, of New York, NY, passed away suddenly the evening of Thursday, January 14, while at home with his wife of 41 years, Claudia Massimo Berns. He was 72.

Known to his friends as "Mike," he was born on October 16, 1943 in Brooklyn, NY to Morris and Barrie Berns. He graduated from The Lawrenceville School in 1961 and received his undergraduate degree from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania in 1965. His career in the import/export electronics business included serving as President of Roburn Agency, M. Berns Industries and Tiffany Connectors. His career in politics included being a partner in RBR Political Consultants, as well as serving on a number of political campaigns from Jim Buckley's U.S. Senate Campaign to George Pataki's campaigns for Governor of New York State. As Chairman of the New York County Conservative Party in the 1990s, he played an integral role in the nomination of political candidates for Mayor of the City of New York as well as Governor of the State of New York. Most recently, he was a Commissioner of the State of New York Workers' Compensation Board from 1996, until his retirement in 2008. Since that time, he has authored two books on Workers' Compensation Law in New York State and maintained a website and blog focused on workers' compensation reform.

A lifelong resident of Manhattan and Breezy Point, NY, Michael served 31 years on the board of the co-op where he and Claudia lived for the past 41 years, including most recently as the treasurer. He was a past member of Community Board 8, a member of the Metropolitan Opera for 18 years, and a worldly traveler having visited over 50 foreign countries. In July of last year, Michael completed his sixth annual international archaeological dig – most recently for the Belize Valley Archaeological Renaissance Project in Belize. To those who knew him personally, he was a tireless humorist and adventurer – but above all else, he was a devoted and loving husband and father.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Claudia Massimo Berns, their daughter Margaret Tiffany Berns, and his 105 year old mother-in-law Margherita Massimo who resides in the home he shared with his wife.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 21st from 4-6 pm at The Frank E. Campbell Memorial Chapel at 1076 Madison Avenue in New York City.

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

Published by New York Times from Jan. 19 to Jan. 20, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Berns

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Cassandra Perry

March 31, 2022

Please accept my condolences. I worked for Mike at Tiffany Connectors back in the 80s. We would trade occasional emails over the years, and I was shocked to learn he'd moved on to a new adventure. So sorry I never knew the breadth of his amazing interests and activities, but grateful for all he taught me and the fun we had.

Condolences and best wishes to Claudia and Tiffany.

Mitchell Goldberg

January 24, 2020

Mike knew the finer things in life. Once he noted I was making weak coffee and guided me to a better cup. I miss Commisioner Berns!

Audrey Muller

January 13, 2020

He is still missed and remembered fondly. May you remember the good times when thinking of him in 2020.

Jonathan Winnie

May 16, 2016

I just learned of Mike's passing today. Although I never met him directly, I followed his WC website and had personal discussions with him regarding his trips to Belize. I will truly miss his insight, humor, and my vicarious travel through his own!

January 24, 2016

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Richard Bell

January 21, 2016

My condolences to the family. I got to know Mike well , as we both started work at WCB around the same time. He was a hard worker and an interesting man, who will be missed.

Elaine Peterson

January 21, 2016

Mike was a unique and memorable fellow, a model for creating and re-creating the life he wanted; and he never stopped. I admire him for that! My sympathies to his family.

Michael Biggie

January 20, 2016

Truly one of a kind. You will be missed.

The Raffaele Family

January 20, 2016

We miss you Mike. In addition to being fun to be around, you were a wealth of knowledge for our community. You brought joy to our great building. Rest in Peace friend..................

---The Raffaele Family

Cat Santasilia

January 20, 2016

Mike, you leave me heartbroken. I cannot believe I will not talk to you, see you, receive emails from you again. It was way too early for you to wander off on your last adventure. We had so much more to talk about and things to do. I want to wish that you are in a better place, but I know that isn't possible as you were already in the best place: in New York, with your dear family, doing what you like the most: being active, your law blog, attending classes just to broaden your horizon or possibly to enlighten the professors with your knowledge on everything, and going off on archaeological adventures. You were always there when I needed you with good advice and cheering. I cannot believe you will not be there anymore. I will cherish everything you have taught me. May you rest in peace. I hope you are out on an amazing adventure. With love, Cat

Mitchell Goldberg

January 20, 2016

RIP

Craig Cooke

January 20, 2016

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Audrey Muller

January 20, 2016

Dear Berns family,

I am sorry for your loss. Comm. Berns was a very kind and knowledgeable man. I enjoyed working under him as an attorney at the WCB. I pray that God will give you comfort in your time of grief. He is missed. May he rest in peace.

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

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