A life well lived with a servant's heart, John D. Berk Jr., age 90, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, teacher, and veteran was laid to rest on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. John is survived by his wife; Kay {Oetzel} Berk, children; Christopher (Kristen) Berk and Lindalee (Matthew) Cookingham as well as three grandchildren; Avery and Britton Berk and Gabriel Cookingham and sister; Sharon Paull. He is proceeded in death by his father; John D. Berk Sr. and mother; Ruby {Clark} Berk, brothers; Charles, James and David Berk and his beloved son; William Berk.

John completed the ROTC program at the University of Dayton while graduating with a Bachelor's in Political Science. He served in active duty from 1956 to 1958 and in the active reserves from 1958 to 1962, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He then continued his education, receiving a Master's in Education from Miami University. John was a lifelong learner, an avid reader, and enjoyed robust discussions on any topic. He loved helping people learn, whether as a teacher in school, a teacher of the Bible at church, or a teacher in life for those who needed an ear. He was passionate about his family and lit up when around them.

He served the Tipp City community in many ways and for many years as an educator, coach, and leader. He served with Tipp City United Methodist Church, Tipp City Men's Club, Kiwanis, the Tipp Lions Club, Tipp Monroe Senior Center, and the Tipp City Youth Baseball League. John spent a great deal of time after retiring to make a place for senior citizens in Tipp City. His hard work helped pave the way for a vibrant and thriving center that helps Tipp seniors continue to be active and social.

John will be fondly remembered by many in Tipp City. Whether you visited him in the principal's office, heard him call bingo with the Lions Club at the Mum Festival, or knew him for never calling off school due to snow, he has been a staple in the Tipp City community for over 60 years. He will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 from 10:30 AM until time of Memorial Service at 11:30 AM at the Tipp City Global Methodist Church at 8 W. Main St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371. A luncheon will follow directly after the service at the church. John will be privately interred next to his son at Maple Hill Cemetery, Tipp City. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution in John's honor to please consider the Tipp Monroe Senior Center. Donations should be sent by check to the following address and reference "John Berk": Tipp Monroe Senior Center, 528 N. Hyatt St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371 Arrangements have been entrusted to Frings and Bayliff Funeral Home, Tipp City. Online condolences may be expressed at www.fringsandbayliff.com.

Tipp City Senior Citizens
528 N. Hyatt St., Tipp City OH 45371