George Francis Berry

George Francis Berry, a cherished father, grandfather, veteran, and devoted public servant, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on October 26, 2024, surrounded by his family.

George was born October 31, 1946 in Brooklyn, New York to Alfred E Berry and Mary G Berry.  He dedicated his life to the service of others. After proudly serving in the United States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant from 1966 to 1972, George dedicated his life to public service as a long-time employee of the United States Postal Service. In addition, his courage and commitment were evident during his remarkable 20-year tenure as a firefighter from 1981 to 2001. Following this, he was recalled to duty as a fire investigator from 2001 to 2011, a role that eventually transitioned into law enforcement. Throughout his career, George played a crucial role in safeguarding his community and ensuring its safety.

Throughout his life, George was deeply committed to various nonprofit organizations, particularly in honoring the service of dogs in our communities.  He played a pivotal role in the inception and realization of the National Fire Dog Monument, "From Ashes to Answers," which honors the arson dogs dedicated to arson investigations, as well as Bloodhound Man Trackers who help find lost and missing, and to help bring criminals to justice. George had a kindness, generosity, and commitment to service that left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

George married Mary at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas, and remained steadfastly loyal to her throughout her life. He often described Mary as the most wonderful part of his life for over fifty years. During George’s military service, they both pursued Bachelor’s degrees at Wichita State University. Fate and various opportunities eventually led them to Colorado, where they lovingly raised their family in Elizabeth.

George is lovingly survived by his children: his son Michael and daughter Jennifer, along with their spouses, Julie and Eric, respectively, all residing in Colorado. He also cherished his two beautiful granddaughters. In addition to his immediate family, George leaves behind three brothers—Joe, Alfred, and Jim—as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins who will carry on his memory.

We invite you to join us for honoring George's life and service as a dedicated Air Force veteran. The ceremony will take place at Fort Logan National Cemetery on Friday, November 15th. Please meet at Staging Area “B” at 11:15am, services will be held at 11:30 AM at Shelter B. 

A Celebration of Life Service will also be held on November 15, 2024, at 2 PM at the Elbert County Fairground Exhibit Building at 95 Ute Ave, Kiowa, CO 80117. Friends, family, and all who knew George are invited to share memories and honor a man who dedicated his life to serving others.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to a local nonprofit organization that George supported throughout his life in law enforcement and fire protection. Bloodhound Man Trackers https://www.bloodhoundmantrackers.org/ and International Fire Dogs https://internationalfd.org/

George leaves behind a legacy of bravery, service, and love. He will be missed dearly but fondly remembered for the profound impact he had on his family, friends, and community.