Obituary of Kenneth Berry

Kenneth Allen Berry was born March 8, 1960 in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of six children born from the union of the late Junior "Jay" Berry and the late Helen (Lovell) Berry. At a young age he enjoyed baseball and was known as the "Homerun Champion to the neighborhood kids. Kenneth attended Monroe High School. For many years, Kenneth made his home with April Smith, and together the couple raised a daughter: Rachel. For more than fifteen years, Ken was employed at Bar Processing as a Hi-Lo Operator until taking a medical disability. He was a hard worker and never turned down overtime. Ken loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping and fishing and spending time with family and friends. An avid Detroit Tiger fan he liked going to the ballpark regardless of the ticket price, and even while entertaining in his backyard pool he would listen to the game on the radio. Ken had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed telling jokes and playing pranks. Even with his lighthearted personality he was always dependable and took care of business. He attended Grape Missionary Baptist Church. Kenneth age 53 of Erie passed away at 10:50pm on Friday, August 23, 2013 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by a nephew: Craig Houser; a niece Brittany Smithers; and April's sister: Carol Ann Darr. To cherish his memory he leaves behind his loving life companion April Smith of Erie; a daughter Rachel Smith of Rochester Hills; two sisters: Terrie (William "Bill") Houser of Ida and Tonya Workman of Monroe; three brothers: Eddie Berry, Keith (Kristen) Berry and James "Hoss" (Preab) Berry all of Monroe; April's parents: Dean and Mary Lou Smith of Erie; six nieces and nephews: Travis, Peyton, Kyleigh, Logen, Candis, and Jason (Jodi); several cousins and best friends. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Monday, August 26, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am, Tuesday, August 27 also at Merkle's with Reverend Bobby Smith pastor of Grape Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Procession will follow to Erie Union Cemetery for burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the family to assist with funeral expenses. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.