Obituary of Chester "Jr" Louis Berns

Chester Louis Berns “JR” was born in Newport on November 30, 1959. He was one of six children born from the union of the late Chester and the late Gladys (Wells) Berns Sr. He attended Jefferson Schools. JR shared more than twenty-five years of his life with his wife Brenda (Trouten) they were married on May 16, 2000. From their union came the birth of a beloved son: Jacob. JR was an extremely proud, doting father, and they were the best of friends. He never missed any of Jacob’s athletic events. For many years JR worked in the family construction business, Ideal Homes. He served in many capacities from carpenter, to mechanic, and heavy equipment operator. JR had also been employed for years at the other family staple Dixie Skateland where he had earned quite the reputation over the years. For the past decade, JR had been a blessing to his community, the Village of Estral Beach. He served on the fire department there as an Engineer, mechanic, and helped to maintain the department fire boat. JR had also been employed as the maintenance man for the Village. He was passionate about the community often shoveling the snow for elderly residents during the winter. JR will be remembered for his kind heart and his ability to always be the life of the party. At the age of 56, Chester Louis “JR” Berns passed away at 1:50 am on Friday, August 26, 2016. In addition to his parents passing he was preceded in death by a brother: James Berns and a sister: Deborah Berns. To cherish his memory, JR leaves his wife Brenda of Newport; son: Jacob Berns E4 United States Navy stationed in San Diego, CA; sister: Jacalyn (Robert) Nietubicz of Newport; brothers: Timothy (Kathy) Berns and John (LeAnn) Berns both of Monroe; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved him. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm on Monday, August 29, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. Members of local fire departments will perform a ceremonial walk-through at 6:30pm. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, August 30, 2016 also at Merkle’s with Reverend Roy Southerland officiating. Procession will follow to LaSalle Township Cemetery. Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, send a floral arrangement, or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting “Add a Memory.”