Louis C. Berger, 63, passed peacefully November 5, 2023, surrounded by his wife and daughters. Beloved husband of 38 years to Mary Kay (Mestan). Cherished father to Jacqueline, Stephanie, and Alexandra. Dear father-in-law to Weston Smith, Kevin Krantz, and Brock Bieschke. Proud grandfather of Freya Bieschke and Vivienne Krantz. Older brother of John Berger and Jeannette Barnicle. Eldest son of Geraldine Gargano and the late Theodore Berger. Uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Louis was a graduate of Riverside Brookfield High School ('78) and DePaul University ('83) with a B.S in Business. He enjoyed a fulfilling 38+ years in the hardware/housewares industry and was a vital member of Phase III Inc. He was passionate about his work and his second family of coworkers, vendors, and buyers.
His greatest joy was time spent with his family and friends. He was a lover of live music, frequent quoter of movies, and would only start his day after a cup of good coffee. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. "Remember, remember, the 5th of November."
Louis and Mary Kay were long-time members of the Morton Arboretum and always made it a priority to visit gardens and nature preserves in their travels. Since Louis wished to be cremated, we're asking in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be made in his name to the Morton Arboretum so family and friends can have a physical space to visit him.
Donations can be made via their tribute gifts page (linked below) or by contacting their donation relations team at [email protected].
Louis' celebration of life was held at Elements, Hotel Indigo in Naperville on November 18, 2023. Attached at the bottom of this site are PDF files of his memorial booklet and the "did you know" table cards.
