Mrs. Dorothy “Dot” Berkey, 82, of Seymour, the heart of the Berkey family, passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2014.
Born November 15, 1931 in Elkhart County, IN, she was the daughter of Henry and Agnes Leomah (Enders) Pletcher. She graduated from Wakarusa High School in 1949.
On April 30, 1950, in Elkhart she married the love of her life Charles Robert Berkey who preceded her in death January 4, 2009. Two hearts truly became one, and in their marriage of 59 years, they spent their time together being partners and friends, growing a family, and growing a church.
Dot was a woman of faith and a founding member of Cornerstone Community Church where she served in many areas- most recently as receptionist and hostess.
As a member of the Friends and Neighbors Home Extension Club and the Friends in Christ Group, Dot’s hospitality was legendary. Her generous heart filled her beautifully decorated home with family and friends and instilled the attitude that there was always room for one more. She especially enjoyed her Bible Study Group, volunteering with Community Provisions, and hosting her friends at Friday Night Card Club.
Dot’s true talent, however, was recognizing and appreciating the talents in others and making them feel loved and uplifted. She wrote loving encouraging notes in the many birthday and anniversary cards that she sent, and was always expressing her thanks and appreciation at even the smallest act or favor.
She raised her children with traditions and morals, and taught them to be strong and independent. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were one of the greatest joys of her life, and she always celebrated their special events. She loved vacationing in Florida.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7
She is survived by her children Charles Robert (Jimmi) Berkey II, Christine Renee’ (Eric) Schneider, Lori Sue Berkey, her grandchildren, Ryan Charles (Cathy) Berkey, Eric Matthew Johnson, Andrew Paul (Kristie) Johnson, Travis Alan (Lesley) Berkey, Angela (Bobby) Fields, great grandchildren, Noah and Lucas Johnson, Mia and Miles Johnson, Tyler, Gracie, and Evan Berkey, Keaton and Carson Leder, and Brody and Savannah Fields, brother Kenneth (Jean) Pletcher, sisters Hilda Hahn, Maxine Hisey, Esther McGowen, L. Joan Pletcher, and Sandra Bergin.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, 4 sisters and 3 brothers.
A Celebration of Dot’s life will be held at Cornerstone Community Church on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at 3:00 PM with Pastor Johnnie Spivey officiating. Friends may call from 1:00 to 3:00PM at the church.
Memorials may be written to Cornerstone Community Church, Hospice of Schneck Medical Center or Freedom Way Church.
All arrangements have been entrusted to Voss Funeral Service and Tri-County Crematory, Seymour, IN
