Obituary of Donald W. Berkhofer
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald "Donnie" Berkhofer, age 89, of Hannacroix, who peacefully departed this life on Friday, July 26, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born to Robert and Elsa (Techow) Berkhofer, Don's life was a tapestry of hard work, love, and passion for the things that brought him joy.
He attended Greenville High School, Don ventured into entrepreneurship with his own excavation company before dedicating many years to his role as a heavy equipment operator at Atlantic Cement in Ravena, NY.
His commitment to his work was matched only by his devotion to his community, as evidenced by his long-standing membership of the Grange and the Medway Grapeville Fire Company.
Don's zest for life was reflected in his love for Ford trucks, monster trucks, and the excitement of truck and tractor pulls. He cherished these interests and wholeheartedly shared them with his family.
Those who knew him often found him sharing laughter and camaraderie over retiree breakfasts with his work friends, or joyfully square dancing at local halls in his youth.
A true collector at heart, Don had a profound appreciation for antiques, particularly his beloved music boxes, which brought him immense happiness. Whether it was boots, farming and gardening,or delving into genealogy and historical records, Don's curiosity and passion for collecting were boundless.
In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his beloved wife, Janet (Lounsbury), his daughter Charity Blake, his brother Robert Berkhofer, and several dear brother and sister-in- laws from the Lounsbury family.
He leaves behind cherished memories with his daughters, Darcy (Gene) Muntz and Jennifer (Dave) Millious, as well as his grandchildren: Taylor (Steven) Haley, Brittany (Daniel) Gerety, Austin Muntz, and Dylan Muntz. His legacy will continue through his great-grandchildren, Emaleigh, Kora, Harleigh, Seth, Benjamin, and Luke.
Our family would like to thank his dear friends Paul Caswell, John Mann, and Pat Conway for being a big part of his life and to Cathy, one of his caregivers, for taking such great care of him.
In honor of Don's life and passions, memorial donations may be made to:
Capitol City Rescue Mission, 259 S Pearl St. Albany, NY 12202.
St. Jude’s, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Medway Grapeville Fire Company, 1352 County Route 51 Hannacroix, NY 12087.
or Dormansville Church P.O. Box 162 Westerlo NY, 12193.
A Celebration of Life honoring Don Berkhofer will be offered on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 2 to 3 pm at Dormansville Church 21 County Route 312, Dormansville, NY, with a memorial service immediately following, to reflect on the love, laughter, and cherished moments he shared with us all. He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on in the stories and memories we hold dear.
Condolences may be left at www.ajcunninghamfh.com.
