Obituary

John Philip Berry Sr.

Tue, 05/23/2017 - 11:30am

John Philip Berry Sr., 69, of East Waterboro died at his home on May 21, 2017 from complications after heart surgery.

John was born in Portland July 7, 1947, the son of George and Eva Mains Berry. He graduated from Portland High School and attended University of Southern Maine.

John enlisted in the Army and served in the Vietnam War. John was involved in the AmVets and the American Legion, but most importantly was a huge advocate for veterans and their benefits. He helped everyone he could and touched the lives of many with his big heart. He was instrumental in Make-A-Wish projects, contributing his talents to grant wishes.

John was an over the road trucker for Parker Fogg, Dickie Stewart, Danny Haskell, Merrill and White Brothers. He was a “Mr. Fix-It.” He could fix or build just about anything. He built his home, re-built engines, and loved working on his 1929 truck. He also enjoyed blacksmithing: horseshoes, rod iron railings and cages for his beautiful birds. He loved his pet dogs, cats, bird and the deer who came to feed. He liked to country line dance to the tunes of Hank Williams and he especially liked to watch westerns and "M.A.S.H."

Family was of the utmost importance, family gatherings and cooking were his treasured moments. He loved Christmas celebrating with a 20-foot decorated tree. He lived by the motto, “Always two of everything!” — evident in his welding shop.

He was predeceased by his parents and a sister Barbara Wright.

John is survived by his wife Beverly Evans Berry of East Waterboro; his daughter, Dorna Lee Lufkin of Standish; son John Philip Berry Jr. of Portland; stepdaughter, Karen Robinson of Porter; stepsons, Jason Robinson and Darrell Robinson, both of Dayton; brother, George Berry Jr. of Westbrook; three sisters, Brenda Bailey of Wiscasset, Deborah Thomas of Freeport, and Elsie Stinson of Wiscasset; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Friday, May 26 at the Dennett, Craig & Pate Funeral Home, 13 Portland Road, Buxton. A service will be held at 1 p.m. officiated by the Reverend Merle Steva followed by a procession to the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Springvale, where he will be laid to rest with U.S. Army military honors.