Eugene Patrick Berek
Eugene Patrick Berek, 68, passed away on August 26, 2023, surrounded by family, after a long and difficult battle with a neurodegenerative disease.
Gene was born to parents, Robert T. Berek and Bernice (Rusinowski) Berek in Dunkirk, NY. Always known for his intellect, he earned the nickname “the little professor” at a young age. He went on to pursue a career in Engineering first earning a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Buffalo, then receiving his Master’s in Coastal Engineering from California Institute of Technology and finally nearly completing his doctorate at the University of Delaware. But his real dream job got in the way of him finishing his dissertation as he earned the title he would carry with the most pride, Dad.
Gene was a father first and foremost for the rest of his life to Anna, Jon and Abby. People that knew him in other spheres of his life would probably be surprised to know what a dedicated father he was because he was also able to achieve many professional accomplishments, faithfully serve the church communities he belonged to and play the role of a thoughtful friend to many without ever missing a dance recital or an opportunity to coach his son’s soccer team.
Gene treasured the relationships he built with the people around him and loved to be able to be there for them in any and every way. His intelligence and quick wit were central to his essence which made his diagnosis and disease progression particularly devastating. What Gene would want most of all is to be remembered at his best: making days long road trips to visit distant friends and family, cracking jokes, dominating a game of trivial pursuit, bringing donuts to church, or being silly with his granddaughters.
Gene is survived by his three children, Anna, Jon and Abby and four granddaughters, Harper, Ava, Madison and Emerson. He is also survived by his brother William Berek and sister Nancy Borowski. He is predeceased by his father and mother, stepmother Genevieve (Cybart) Berek, and brother Robert L. Berek.
A celebration of Gene’s life will take place at 1:00 pm on Friday, September 15th, 2023 at Fellowship Church in Round Rock, Texas – 3379 Gattis School Road.
For more information or to leave condolences please visit: https://www.ramseyfuneral.com/ obituary/eugene-gene-berek
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the American Brain Foundation in Gene’s name.
