Michael B. Berkowitz's Obituary
Michael B. Berkowitz, 74, of Micanopy, FL, died on February 4, 2018 surrounded by family. Born and raised in Jersey City, NJ, he is pre-deceased by his parents Milton & Mary (Garner) Berkowitz. He is survived by his only sister Rosemary & her husband Stephen Sekel and sister-in-law Sherry & Anthony Muro. He leaves behind the love of his life, Mary Ellen (Britton) Berkowitz and their 12 children: Lisa, Michael, Mary Ellen, Laura, Christine, Mark, Jennifer, Paul, Elizabeth, John, Kathryne and Robert. His 23 beautiful grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews will miss him dearly.
“Mr. B” leaves behind a colorful history at his alma mater, St. Peters Prep High School, where he was employed for over 20 years. He started off his career at Prep as a history teacher and gymnastics coach. He then moved on to Assistant Principal/Prefect of discipline and ultimately retired as the Treasurer. Mike embarked on his second career with the State of New Jersey working as a teacher for the Juvenile Justice Dept. He was instrumental in helping many of the incarcerated young men earn their GED’s.
He ultimately “retired” and moved to Micanopy, FL where he was very involved in the local community as the Recreation Director for 2 years. Mike was always an active member of his church. He was a Eucharistic Minister, Pre-Cana leader and heavily involved in the Marriage Encounter ministry.
His role as father-figure extended far beyond his biological family. His students, gymnasts and neighborhood kids were all touched by his special brand of parenting. Everyone knew “Mr. B”. He was the Dad everyone wished they had.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, February 8, 2018 at 11am, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 10900 SW 24th Avenue, Gainesville, with Fr. Jeff McGowan as celebrant. The family will receive friends Wednesday, February 7, 2018 from 6-8pm at Queen of Peace Catholic Church. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Prep HS, 144 Grand Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302 in Michael’s name.
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