Michael Joseph Berry

Michael Joseph Berry, aged 86, passed away on June 2, 2025, at home in Montrose, Colorado. Born on October 16, 1938, in Clondalkin, County Dublin, Ireland, to Patrick Gerald Berry and Nora Wimsey Berry. Though born in Dublin, Michael spent his formative years in Ballymote, County Sligo; along with his three younger brothers—Gerald, David, and Donald.

When Michael was sixteen, he moved to Surbiton, England and lived with family to complete his studies. In 1957, Michael immigrated to the United States when he was nineteen years old and resided in New Jersey and worked in New York City. Two years later he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Germany on the Czechoslovakian border for two years. When he returned, he lived in New Jersey. He met the love of his life in 1964, Carol “Lynne” Kecker and they were married in 1967.

Michael was a man of wisdom, kindness, and witty Irish humor. Michael spent his career as a land surveyor, planning sites and locations with precision and care. He built a home for his family in West Milford, New Jersey where they resided for 42 years before moving to Montrose, Colorado in 2015. Michael’s passions included playing soccer, fishing, sailing, photography, bagpiping, and gardening.

He was survived by his loving and devoted wife of 57 years Lynne Berry; son Chris Berry, daughter Johanna Berry Wasser, son-in-law Nick Wasser, and grandchildren Elizabeth (Betsy), Aubrey, and Sayla. As well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

Michael was a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participant in Montrose. The organization and staff made it possible for Michael to live a pleasant and comfortable life at home.

A celebration of life will take place in Colorado, New Jersey, and in his native land Ireland; dates to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Dementia Association in Michael’s memory.