Edward G. Berberich, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and U.S. Navy veteran, passed away peacefully at home on January 5, 2023, at the age of 95. He is now reunited with his cherished wife of 68 years, Evelyn. Born to the late Jacob and Ethel (Hammer) Berberich, Ed grew up in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx and graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School in 1945. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Navy during the closing days of World War II.
Following his honorable service, Ed embarked on a long and successful career with the New York Telephone Company, dedicating 42 years to the telecommunications industry. Even after retirement, his expertise was highly sought after, leading him to continue as an engineering consultant for another decade.
For over 40 years, Ed made his home in the Point Beach section of Milford, where he was well-known and loved by his neighbors. His friendly nature and gift for storytelling created lasting bonds, bringing joy to all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A proud veteran, Ed found great purpose and camaraderie through his involvement with American Legion Post 196 in Milford. To him, the members of the Post were not just friends but an extended family, with whom he shared his love for service and community. His passion for participation in Post activities reflected his deep appreciation for the military brotherhood and his unyielding spirit of patriotism.
Ed’s legacy lives on through his family. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Christine Partelow, and grandson, Eric Partelow. He also leaves behind his son, Edward Berberich, and his wife Patricia, along with their children, Edward, Magnus, Stephanie, and Jacob. His granddaughter, Danielle, and her husband Gary Guilmette, blessed him with two great-grandchildren, Juliet and Jack, who brought him much pride and joy. Ed’s loyal canine companion, Mindy, now finds comfort with his grandson, Edward. Ed was predeceased by his brothers, Robert, John, Albert, and his sister, Ruthann Horne.
Although Ed’s physical presence is missed, his spirit and contributions to his community and family will forever be remembered. A final military salute and celebration of his life will take place at American Legion Post 196 at a later date, where his memory will be honored by the many lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ed’s name to American Legion Post 196, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to service, both in and out of uniform.
May Edward G. Berberich rest in peace, his legacy living on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
I am not a veteran. I am a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. But in 1991, personal loss brought me to a place I never left.
Over two decades later, that loss led me to the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where I took on the coordination of Wreaths Across America — which grew into the largest and fastest growing veterans program in the state. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it for them.
In 2016 I founded the Connecticut Veterans Bulletin. Not because I served, but because I believe those who did deserve to be honored, connected, and kept alive.
Twenty-two veterans die by suicide every day. I knew about that number before it became a hashtag. I knew it personally, long before anyone was talking about it.
This publication exists because that number is unacceptable. Because every veteran in Connecticut deserves to know someone gives a damn.
That someone is me.
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