William H. Berger II

William H. “Bill” Berger, 89, passed away on July 26, 2026 doing what he loved.

Born on April 25, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, Bill was the son of the late William H. Berger and Eugenia Fowell-Berger. He grew up in Chicago and attended Lane Technical High School, where he developed the strong work ethic and determination that would define his life.

In 1958, Bill was drafted into the United States Army, proudly serving his country for two years. While serving at Fort Gordon, Georgia, he earned the Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM) in recognition of his honorable and faithful service.

It was while stationed at Fort Gordon that Bill met the love of his life, Harriett “Jan” Cowart. They were married on September 1, 1962, in Toledo, Ohio, beginning a marriage built in love, commitment and partnership that lasted more than fifty years. Jan preceded him in death on January 9, 2013, but the love they shared remained a guiding light throughout Bill’s life.

After his military service, Bill began a career with Illinois Bell Telephone, later AT&T, where he worked as a cable splicer before advancing into management. His dedication, leadership and integrity earned him the admiration and respect of his coworkers throughout his career.

Although Bill took pride in his work, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, bowling, traveling and grilling outdoors - even in the middle of winter, often barefoot. Family gatherings were especially important to him and one of his favorite traditions was carving the Thanksgiving turkey, a role he cherished each year.

Bill believed in serving his community. He was active in the Neighborhood Watch, volunteered as a Boy Scout Leader and was a proud member and past commander of the American Legion, Post 1226. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Those who knew Bill will remember him as stubborn at times, yet deeply caring, loving, dependable and always willing to help others. He believed there was a right way of doing things - and if you didn’t do it that way, he was more than happy to show you how HIS way worked. His grandchildren will forever smile remembering those lessons, delivered with patience, determination and love.

One of the simplest yet most treasured memories his family will carry is the phone call they could always count on. Bill would call just to hear their voice and end the conversation with his signature phrase: “Hey Baby, just checking in. See you later. Bye-bye.” Those few words became his quiet way of saying, I LOVE YOU.

Bill is survived by his sister Maria (the late Peter) Seibert and his loving children, Sharon (Clement) Weborg, William “Billy” (Caroline) Berger. He was the proud grandfather of Adam (Carmen), Cody, Shelby, Nicholas and Samantha, and the cherished great-grandfather of Amanii, Nicko, Ajai, Ava, Knox and Isabella. He was proceeded in death by his brother Robert Barthelme and wife LaVerne.

Visitation to be held at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 W. Talcott Road in Park Ridge, on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 4-9pm. Funeral service to be held at the same location on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 10am with interment following at Montrose Cemetery, 5400 N. Pulaski Road in Chicago.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to suggest a donation to the Lincolnwood American Legion Post 1226, 4170 W. Morse Avenue, Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712.