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Billy Ray “Bill” Berger, was a man with character and a deep devotion to his family. A man whose humor was infectious, and whose selflessness ran deeper than the rivers and bays he fished. Bill passed away peacefully on Feb. 4, 2024 at the age of 73. He lived a life full of adventure, hard work, and an ever-present helping hand.
Bill was born July 25, 1950 in Columbus where he lived his entire life. His childhood was painted with a strong family work ethic and a quiet respect for the country.
Bill wasn’t just a man of the land; he was a man of the water. A seasoned fisherman, he could cast or set a line with grace, his patience rewarded with countless catches. When the seasons turned, he transformed into a skilled hunter. The thrill of the deer blind was matched only by the satisfaction of a successful hunt, a testament to his respect for the delicate balance of the woods.
If he wasn’t hunting or fishing, Bill would be cooking. From tasty stews to the annual Good Friday family fish fry. He was a fixture cooking or working at the local Knights of Columbus, of which he was a member, fish fry and the annual Columbus Volunteer Fire Department oyster fry.
Berger’s Grocery, first operated and later owned by him, wasn’t just a store; it was a place for the community and a gathering place for family and friends. Even after transitioning to office manager at Maverick Contractors, his genuine spirit continued to shine, fostering friendships and offering a helping hand wherever needed. Bill was also the manager for the Knights of Columbus Hall for several years.
When the day’s work was done, Bill found happiness in the gentle click of dominoes, his jokes and laughter carrying across the room. His competitive spirit was legendary, but always tempered with a twinkle in his eye and a sharp tongue.
Bill’s most defining characteristic was his unwavering dedication to others. As a proud volunteer firefighter for the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department for 35 years, he risked his own safety to protect his community. His bravery and selflessness were an inspiration and a testament to the man he truly was.
Bill leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and a deep love for life. His absence will be felt in the quiet moments by the river, the laughter around the domino table, and the warmth of a community he selflessly served.
Bill met the love of his life, Susan (Skutca) whom he married on Aug. 11, 1973 at St. Roch Catholic Church. Together they built a life of deep love and friendship. Always enjoying each other’s companionship and leaning on each other through life’s journey.
Bill is survived by his wife of 50 years, Susan Berger; twin sister Sandi Berger; brother Bob (Sandra) Berger; sisters-in-law Christine Grafe and Linda Zweschper; brothers-in-law Jimmy (Brenda) Skutca and Steven Skutca and friend Lynnie; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Ruby Berger; fatherin- law and mother-in-law Frank and Mildred Skutca; sister-in-law Diana Skutca; brother-in-law Leon Zweschper; as well as nephews Keith Grafe, Darrell Grafe and John Zweschper.
Pallbearers were Brian Berger, Chad Ellis, Larry Stolar, Manuel Martinez, Michael Whitlock, Jimmy Skutca, Steven Skutca, Mark Wied, John Seifert, and Tara Sotherland. Last but not least, honorary pallbearers were Bill’s “deer camp” buddies: Kenneth Jansky, Zachary Jansky, Mike Jansky, David Jansky, Ronnie Jansky, Jonathan Jansky, Allen Janak, Cody Kerrville, Pat “Peto” Jansky, and Jerry Mica.
Visitation was Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus. A parish prayer service and Knights of Columbus rosary followed at 7 p.m. with Deacon Rusty Theut officiating.
Funeral service was Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus with Fr. James Dvorak officiating. Visitation at church was from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Burial was in St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Columbus.
Memorials may be given to the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 125, Columbus, TX 78934, Knights of Columbus no. 2971, P.O. Box 92, Columbus, TX 78934, St. Anthony Catholic Church, P.O. Box 669, Columbus, TX 78934 or the charity of your choice.
Bill may be gone, but his spirit will live forever in the hearts and minds of those he touched. Rest in peace, Bill, your work is done.
Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.
