Don Berlin

Joseph “Don” Berlin of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away peacefully in his sleep at his residence at Heather Hills on Thursday, June 24th, 2021. He was 95 years old. Don was born on February 23, 1926 in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Joseph and Arlene Berlin. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years Marjorie “Ann” Berlin and son Robert Berlin. Don graduated from Saginaw St. Mary’s High School in 1944 and was drafted into the Army.  He served as a Tech Sergeant in the U.S. Army where he served his military duties in the U.S.A. and the European Theatre of Operations. He was with the anti-tank division serving at the Battle of the Bulge. Don received commendations including the Victory Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, the European African Middle Eastern Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star, and the Good Conduct medal. He was also a graduate of Central Michigan University in June of 1950, where he earned his degree in Education. He taught school for three years before accepting work with Amerisure Insurance Company/Michigan Mutual Liability Company and retired after 33 years of service.  He was the Branch Manager in Saginaw and then was promoted to the position of Resident Vice President in Grand Rapids where he retired.  He had many friends in the insurance community and in his personal life.  He was a licensed insurance agent for 50 years and was a past member of the Peninsular Club and Watermark Country Club in Grand Rapids. He married his sweetheart, Marjorie Ann Harden on December 30, 1950. Don and Ann raised nine children; (Susie), Chris (Jean), John (Rita), Dan (Karen), Tom (Kathryn), Patrice (Dave) Thomas, James (Stacey), Bridget (Chris) Oakes, Matt (Beth), and were blessed with 24 grandchildren and five great grandchildren whom he loved and cherished.  He and Ann loved to travel. They spent their winters in Destin, Florida enjoying golf with their many friends. Don was a member of St. Roberts of Newminster Catholic Church where he was an Usher for over 30 years.  He loved his wife, God, family and country and will be missed by many friends, especially his children and grandchildren. The family graciously wishes to thank the staff at The Village of Heather Hills for their loving care and Kindred Hospice for their support. A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday July 10, 2021 at St. Robert of Newminister Parish, 6477 Ada Dr. SE, Ada, MI 49301, with Rev. Leonard Sudlik as celebrant. Visitation will be at the church from 10:00-11:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Robert’s Haiti Outreach.

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