Bruce J. Berkman

Bruce J. Berkman, age 75, was born October 30, 1949, in Gary, Indiana, and passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025. Bruce grew up in the Brunswick area, where he attended Gary Edison, and ran track, wrestled, and played baseball. Ultimately, Bruce was a 1967 graduate of Lew Wallace High School in Gary, where he wrestled and played baseball. Bruce went on to achieve his undergraduate degree from Purdue University, followed by a Juris Doctor from Kent School of Law. Bruce was an Eagle Scout with Troop 34, a member of the Indiana National Guard, and had a successful law practice in Lake County, Indiana.

Bruce was a big Yankees fan and an avid Chicago White Sox fan and Purdue University (Go Boilers !) football fan with season tickets to both for many decades, which he shared with everyone he knew, by tailgating with his elaborate set up with satellite tv, games, food, and drinks. Bruce enjoyed coaching his sons, John Wayne and Sam, and his grandson, Jason, in the Little League Baseball, as well as attended as many games as possible as Jason excelled at football. He looked forward to his annual tradition of seeing The Elvis  Tribute Show at the Star Plaza Theatre with Linda, his daughter, Jenny, and best friends, Bobby and Joanne. As a member of Innsbrook Country Club, he enjoyed dinners and pool time with family and friends. He had love for his tank tops, his funny jokes, his pet family, and $2 bills. Buce enjoyed the Swedish tradition of making glogg, meatballs, and potato sausage with family during the holidays.

Bruce's legacy is deeply rooted in love of his family. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Yngve (Swede) and Ruth Lorraine (Labarr) Berkman; his ex-wife and best friend, Linda J. (Cohen) Berkman; his brother, Jeffrey Berkman; and sister, Janice Berkman-Wyllie. 

He leaves behind a loving family, including his children: John Wayne Berkman, Jennifer (Bjorn) Bergstrom, and Samuel Berkman; his step-children, Rachel (Eddie) Malloy, and Ryan (Jennifer) Peterson; grandchildren; Jason, Jaxson, Iyla, McKenna and Madisyn; his brother, Brian (Nadine) Berkman; his brother-in-law, Jeff "Conan" Wyllie; his sister-in-law, Diana Falk-Berkman; along with his former wife, Linda M. Sullivan, that created a wonderful blended family together.

Bruce will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A special thanks to Ridgelawn Funeral Home for going above and beyond.

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 2:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. from Ridgelawn Funeral Home 4201 West Ridge Road Gary, Indiana 46408. Interment Calumet Park Cemetery 2305 West 73rd Avenue Merrillville, Indiana 46410.

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