Michael John Berry

Michael John Berry (Bud/Buddy)

Michael Berry, 72, of Tampa, FL, formerly of Lansing, IL and Chicago IL, passed away on September 4, 2015 after receiving a liver transplant at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL.

He was born and reared in Chicago by his dear parents, Michael and Ann (Sweeney) Berry. Bud was a loving brother to two sisters and one brother; Ellen Berry, Maureen (the late Gene) Leland, and Bob Berry.

His Irish heritage from County Mayo and County Kerry was cherished and was the core of Mike's faithful religious beliefs and strong hard-working life.

Mike was the beloved husband of Linda Berry for 50 years and, lovingly, referred to her as his "Bride". The most precious and important people in his life were his children. He was the adoring father of Kevin (Margaret), Keith, and Kathleen (Kevin) Steffey; devoted and adored "Boompa" of Sean, Alec, and Kyle Berry; Peyton, Morgan, and Addison Steffey; and his new grand-daughters Brenna and Meghan Murphy. Mike was an admired uncle to many nieces and nephews and a loyal friend to all. Mike was the proud Godfather of Jimmy Bowes. A "Celebration of Life" in Chicago will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2015 at 5:00 PM. at the Thompson Kuenster Funeral Home, 5570 W. 95th Street, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. The wake will begin at 1:00 PM followed by the service at 5:00. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations to Mike's favorite organization, in his name, would be a nice remembrance: "Our Club", 3218 W. Gandy, Tampa, FL 33611 Mike was a retired foreman and a proud 50 year member of the Roofer's Union Local # 11. Mike volunteered at "Open Arms" and formed a connection with the homeless guests he served through his love of sports and his humor. He was an avid sports fan and loved his Chicago Black Hawks and Chicago Bears. He followed the Tampa Bay Rays and silently kept constant watch on a particular Mets player for his "Bride."