Remembering Mike Berry

Michael “Mike” Berry, 83 died Nov. 13 at home with his loving family at his side. Born and raised in Longford, Ireland, Mike emigrated from Ireland to America and finally settled in Bridgewater. Prior to his retirement, Mike worked for AT&T and Bell Labs for 37 years.

Mike was very proud of his Irish heritage. He was the Grand Marshall of the Somerville, NJ Saint Patrick’s Parade in 2003. An avid musician, Mike was especially fond of playing the accordion, bodhran, harmonica, spoons, harp, and the tin whistle. Mike’s talents earned him a reputation of being one of the greatest Irish musicians of his time. Mike won the All Irelands for whistling in 1992.

Mike was a longtime member of The AOH Saint Patrick Division 1, Somerset County, NJ, The Knights of Columbus 1432, The Tara Association, The Comhaltas Martin Mulvihill Branch, and the Irish American Association of North West Jersey.

Mike was the driving force behind the Monthly Sesiuns that the Division held before he became ill. Mike enjoyed Irish Music, and a testament of that love was shown at his viewing when over 20 musicians, led by his daughter Maureen on accordion played in honor of Mike.

Above all, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

His work for our Division, his friendship, and his presence will be missed.

May He Rest In Peace.