Bryce Edward Berger

In Loving Memory of Bryce Edward Berger

Bryce Edward Berger, age 82, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on October 6, 1943, in Hallett, Oklahoma, Bryce lived a life defined by adventure, kindness, curiosity, and an unwavering love for the people around him.

As a young boy, Bryce was raised in Hallett before his family moved to Arcata, California. As a young adult, he traveled to Washington and Oregon before returning home to Oklahoma in February 1996. Along the way, he built a life filled with meaningful friendships, unforgettable experiences, and a heart for serving others.

Bryce married Yvonne Turel in December 1965, and together they welcomed two children, Ted and Denise. Later in life, Bryce found lasting love with Sue Ann Berger. They met through the Cleveland Church of Christ, became pen pals, and after corresponding for several months, were married on October 18, 1990, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Together, they shared 35 wonderful years of marriage.

Bryce was a man of many talents and interests. He studied Drafting Technology at the College of the Redwoods and later owned and operated a mobile home park in Cleveland, Oklahoma. In semi-retirement, he enjoyed serving his community as a school bus driver beginning in 2005. Beyond his career, Bryce was a Senior Rank holder in Rokyu Judo in 1974, a member of Toastmasters beginning in 1990, and became a CASA volunteer in 2008, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to helping others.

His greatest joy was spending time with family. Every Thanksgiving, the youngest members of the family seemed naturally drawn to Bryce because he was, at heart, simply a big kid himself. It wasn't uncommon for him to announce, "I'm going for a walk," only to have a trail of eager children following him from every corner of the house. Those moments became treasured memories for generations.

Bryce loved to travel and embraced adventure wherever it could be found. He vacationed in Japan, cherished the beauty of the Oregon Coast, and enjoyed an Amtrak train journey from Oklahoma City to Albany, Oregon. He was always willing to try something new and approached life with enthusiasm. In the kitchen, recipes were merely suggestions, and his creativity often led to one-of-a-kind meals that reflected his adventurous spirit.

He also had a wonderful sense of humor. Family members fondly remember the "giggle box turnovers" during road trips, when Bryce's contagious laughter would spread through the car until everyone was laughing together. He had an incredible gift for bringing joy to those around him.

Bryce had a special place in his heart for animals throughout his life. Childhood companions included Cindy and Snooks, his beloved dogs, and Ragmop, his Shetland pony. Later in life, he enjoyed the companionship of his cats, Whiskers, Oggie, and Jules.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Berger and Norma (Vaughan) Berger. One sibling Pat.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Sue Ann Berger; his children, Ted Berger, Denise Berger, Cara Cantrell, and Paula Przybyszewski; his siblings, Donna House, David Berger, Barbara Burgess, and June; his grandchildren, Aleah Brummett, Joelle Berger, and Cheyenne Cantrell; his great-grandson, Asher Brummett; along with many extended family members, church family, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, laughter, and generous spirit.

Bryce was a faithful member of the Church of Christ, worshipping with congregations in Sand Springs and Cleveland throughout his life. After retiring, he also enjoyed bringing smiles to countless children and families by serving as Santa Claus during the Christmas season-a role that perfectly reflected his joyful and giving heart.

A celebration of Bryce's life will be held at the Cleveland Church of Christ in Cleveland, Oklahoma, with Elliott Dunn officiating.

Bryce will be remembered as adventurous, playful, curious, kind, and someone who genuinely loved making others smile. His laughter, compassion, and love for family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.