Leonard Francis Berger Jr., of Shelton, departed this world peacefully on December 11th, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.
Len was born on June 28, 1942, in Bridgeport, son of the late Leonard F. Berger Sr. and Vivian Ratchford. He grew up in Trumbull and attended Warren Harding High School in Bridgeport. He went on to graduate from the University of Bridgeport, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business. He also earned a degree in retail banking management after attending the University of Virginia in 1986.
In 1964, Len began his illustrious 39-year-career in banking with Fleet Bank and its predecessors, Shawmut and Connecticut National Bank, where he held the positions of Area Manager of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, District Manager of Greater Waterbury, District Manager overseeing the administration of sales, services, operational efficiency and personnel management of the 19 branches encompassing Greater Bridgeport, and finishing his career as a Vice President and Senior Business Development Officer serving all branches in Bridgeport, Danbury, New Haven and Norwalk.
In 1969, Len and Lorna, his devoted wife of 61 years, began their life together in Shelton, where they raised their family. Len’s commitment to his community was unwavering; he was actively involved in the Valley United Way and the Hewitt Foundation.
He Served on the boards of the Monroe Lions Club, the Shelton Economic Development Corp., the Housatonic Community College Foundation, and St. Vincent’s College.
He passionately served as a board member and past President of the P T Barnum Foundation, and in 2003 was given the honor of being selected as the 54th Ringmaster of the Annual Barnum Festival.
A dedicated husband and father, Len left a lasting impression on those whose lives he touched. He loved fishing, camping, hiking, and spending time with his family. He also enjoyed frequent trips to Cape Cod, the Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts, Lake Ontario, and California.
Len leaves behind Lorna and their loving children: Douglas Berger and his wife Mayra of San Diego, Calif., Michelle Ross Gonzalez of Shelton, and Todd Berger of West Haven. Len will be profoundly missed by his 11 grandchildren: Jake Berger, Jackson Berger, Cason Berger, Andy Berger, Ryan Berger, Colin Berger, Owen Ross, Evan Ross, Zachary Gonzalez, Jesse Croucier and Jeremy Croucier.
Len is also survived by his brother Allan T. Berger and his wife Susan of St. Simons Island, Ga., as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters Leonara Clancy, and Elaine Mileski.
The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate doctors and nurses at Yale New Haven Health (Bridgeport Hospital), who provided exceptional support during Len’s final days. Their care and compassion brought comfort to Len and his family during this difficult journey.
Friends are invited to calling hours Friday, Feb. 14, 4 to 8 p.m. at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe. Funeral will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 11 a.m. at Huntington United Methodist Church, 338 Walnut Tree Hill Rd, Shelton. Interment to be privately held.
Online condolences may be left at SpadaccinoFuneralHome.com.
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