Fred L. Berry, 82, of Michigan City, IN, died Monday, March 1, 2010, at Golden Living Centers, LaPorte.
He was born Feb. 29, 1928, in Salem, IN, to Marion and Nellie (Bush) Collins.
Fred was a laborer for Blocksom & Co. for over 25 years. He also worked part time for the Washington Park Police Department. He then became zoo foreman at Washington Park Zoo. He was a former member of FOP 75 Dunes Lodge. He enjoyed playing guitar with his brother-in-law, Loyd, at family functions. During his 26 years at the zoo he established a special bond with Dutchess the elephant. Of the many animals he cared for over the years, she was his favorite. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
He married Jean Pipkin in 1953. He married his second wife, Mary M. Orth, in 1987. Both preceded him in death.
His parents and his stepdaughter, Rose Utley, also preceded him in death.
Surviving are his children, Darlene (Larry) Price of LaPorte, Linda Berry of Michigan City, Brian (Vicki) Berry of Michigan City, Kim (Brice) Holzer of Michigan City, and Frederick (Amie) Orth of LaPorte; stepchildren Dean and George Orth of LaPorte, Mari Dee of Mokena, IL, and Peggy Hollis of Michigan City; grandchildren Jeannie (Elijah) Fleming, Ashlee, Elliot, Alyssa and Sonja Berry, Samantha, Anthony and Jacob Orth, and Brianna and Nicholas Holzer; great-grandchildren Jacob, Nellijah and Naomie Fleming and Dominick Wozniak; and many other great-grandchildren.
Services will be held Thursday, March 4, at 3 p.m. at Carlisle Funeral Home, Michigan City, with Rev. Daniel R. Fleming officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 1 to 3 p.m. Cremation will follow the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Michiana Humane Society, 722 W. U.S. 212, Michigan City, IN 46360.
