Donald Berger

Donald Berger, a beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, and friend, as well as a decorated Air Force veteran, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at the age of 93 on January 5, 2025, in West Hartford, CT. Donald was born on August 18, 1931, in Sheboygan, WI, the son of Ida Brockman Berger and Oscar Berger. He is predeceased by his parents and siblings Richard, Bruce, Connie Bauer, and Sharon Delo. His brothers Roger (wife Nancy) of Redondo Beach, California, Robert, and James both of Sheboygan also survive him. Donald’s father died when he was 9, and Ida raised eight children by herself. He joined the United States Air Force at the age of 22 and proudly served for 21 years as a helicopter test pilot, completing his training at the Empire Test Pilot School of the Royal Air Force. During the Vietnam War, Donald demonstrated exceptional bravery and skill, flying countless missions in some of the most challenging conditions. His courageous service earned him numerous military honors, including the Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and others—a testament to his selfless dedication to his comrades and his country. After retiring from the Air Force as a Lt. Col., Donald continued his passion for aviation as the Director of International Marketing for Sikorsky Aircraft’s Helicopter Division, where he worked for another 20 years. Beyond his military and professional accomplishments, Donald will be remembered as a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Betty; his children Gary (wife Jill), Greg (wife Amy), Laurie, and Janna; and his son Jeff (predeceased). His grandchildren include Ryan (wife Alexa), Christopher, Andrew, Kaylin (husband Connor), Samantha, Dylan, and Grace. His great-grandchildren are James, Maren, Rowan, and Callan. In his retirement, Donald loved to travel with Betty in their RV, visiting family and military friends across the country. He even took his grandchildren on a few adventures. He loved his grandchildren and spent every waking moment with them, attending countless sporting events for each child. He loved golfing, having lunch with his friends, and tinkering around the house. His most treasured times were family reunions in Sheboygan, WI, where over 70 family members would gather to celebrate their love for each other and participate in a weekend full of parties and a golf tournament, “The Greater Berger Open.” He also leaves behind a legacy of strength, honor, and kindness that will forever inspire those who knew him. Friends and relatives are welcome to join the family on January 17, 2025, for visitation at 10 AM, held at Molloy Funeral Home, West Hartford, CT; followed by a service to begin at 11:30 AM. All are invited to gather afterward to celebrate Donald’s life. A funeral service with full military honors will also be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to The Wounded Warrior Project or the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, where 100% of donated money goes to research. Fly high, Donald, and rest in peace knowing your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donald Berger

August 18, 1931 - January 5, 2025