Robert "Bob" J. Berken, 91, De Pere, passed away Sunday, September 23, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born November 6, 1926 a son of the late Theodore and Augusta (Berendsen) Berken. On June 19, 1954 Bob married the former Beverly Dumas.
At the age of 18, Bob packed his bags and boarded a train to enlist into the US Navy during WWII; during his time in the Navy he became a Seabee. Once Bob was honorably discharged, he came back home to become a home builder with multiple companies. After some time in the home construction an opportunity arose where he would spend the rest of his career as the head carpenter for the St Norbert College. Time away from the college for Bob was spent fishing, hunting, caring for a garden that was the biggest on the block. Bob also always found time to be a meticulous woodcarver for his family or anyone who may ask of his talent.
Bob is survived by his wife of 64 years Beverly Berken, De Pere; his daughter Jill (Steve) Winchell, De Pere; grandchildren: David (Jenelle) Muesbeck, Stephanie Muesbeck, and Breanna Winchell; siblings: Donald Berken and Mary Kasbohm, Raymond (Joyce) Berken, and Gerald (Judy) Berken. He is further survived by his sisters-in-law: Judy Berken and Nancy Berken; Beverly's siblings; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Richard, Thomas, and Theodore Berken; and sister Patricia Berken.
Family and friends may visit on Friday, September 28, 2018 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Ryan Funeral Home & Crematory, 305 N. Tenth St, De Pere. Parish Prayer service at 7:30PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, September 29, 2018 at 10:00 AM at St. Norbert College Parish at Old St Joseph Church with Fr. Michael Brennan, O. Praem. officiating and Dcn. Kevin DeCleene assisting. Full Military Rites will follow Mass. Burial will be in Mt Calvary Cemetery. Please visit www.ryanfh.com to send condolences to Bob's family. Memorials are appreciated to Unity Hospice.
With true thank you and acknowledgement, we wish to thank Dr. M. Fuchs, Katie Hampton, NP; and to Unity Hospice for all the care shown to Bob and his family.
