Beverly Shepard Barkevich

Gloversville – Beverly "Bev" Shepard Barkevich, 89, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Gloversville, New York, on August 14, 1936, to the late S. Edward Brown and Eleanor Eaton Brown. On February 7, 1959, she married the love of her life, John "Jack" Barkevich. Together they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage until Jack's passing in 2013.

Bev graduated from Gloversville High School in 1954 and earned an associate's degree from LaSalle Junior College. She held several jobs throughout her life, but her favorite was working as a teacher's aide for the Gloversville School District, where she made lifelong friends.

Family was the center of Bev's life. She and Jack loved traveling and welcomed anyone who wanted to join their adventures. Whether snow skiing, water skiing, hiking, or just enjoying a sunny day, she treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Bev was a devoted supporter of her children, rarely missing a sporting event or activity, and had a lifelong love for the many dogs that were part of her family.

Caroga Lake held a special place in Bev's heart. Beginning in 1968, she and Jack's camp became a gathering place where family and friends were always welcome. What began as a summer retreat became their permanent home in 2000. The Fourth of July at Caroga Lake was especially dear to Bev, bringing together generations of family and friends to celebrate, laugh, and create cherished memories. They also enjoyed spending winters in Sebastian, Florida, where they embraced boating, the beach, and the friendships they made there. Whether at the lake or in Florida, Bev and Jack were known for opening their home, sharing cocktails, laughter, and creating lasting memories with those they loved.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Bev's caregivers for their compassionate care, kindness, and support. They became part of Bev’s family.

Bev is survived by her loving children, Susan (Danny) Forte of Murphy, North Carolina, Sally (Chris) Cram of Caroga Lake, and Bruce (Sheila) Barkevich of Clifton Park; her grandchildren, Kelly (Connor) Colvin of Cohoes, Tom Barkevich of Dayton, Ohio, and Mike Barkevich of Clifton Park; and her first great-grandchild, Henry Francis Colvin. She is also survived by many cherished sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bev was predeceased by her son, Alan Barkevich, and her sister, Barbara Satterlee.

A Celebration of Bev's Life will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026 at Bev and Jack's home on Caroga Lake, 318 South Shore Road, West Caroga Lake, New York 12032, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor a woman whose warmth, generosity, and love touched so many lives.

Bev's legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the generations of memories made at Caroga Lake.