Herman G. Berkman, 91
ADAMS, Mass. — Herman Gerald Berkman, 91, of 1 Berkshire Square and of Lake Drive, Stockbridge, died on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield.
Born in Monticello, N.Y., on April 29, 1923, son of Isaac and Rebecca Dorf Berkman, he earned his bachelor's degree in public administration and economics from New York University in 1947. He earned his master's in regional planning and his doctorate in economics from the University of Wisconsin in 1956.
Mr. Berkman had an extensive teaching career, having been a professor of planning at NYU's Graduate School of Public Administration and at the University of Wisconsin. He had also been a lecturer and instructor for many colleges and universities around the world and was a consultant to many urban renewal agencies and planning committees. He published a number of books and articles on urban planning and economics.
He was a life member of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials and Phi Beta Kappa. He was a lover of classical music and first came to know the Berkshires through Tanglewood. He had a strong interest in all the arts, attending local museums, theaters and dance performances, including attending Jacob's Pillow frequently.
For many years. dogs were among his best friends, especially samoyeds. He enjoyed bird watching and all aspects of nature. He took delight in seeing his nieces and nephews and their families grow into adulthood as well as the children of his friends. He was well known for his generous nature. He was capable of showing interest in almost everyone he encountered. He will be missed.
He leaves two nephews, Josh Weinstein of Shelburne Falls and Eugene Sommerfeld of Danvers; two nieces, Susan Sommerfeld of Melbourne, Fla., and Laura Macalevey of Worthing, England; seven grandnephews, five grandnieces and three great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews.
He was predeceased by his three sisters, Sarah Horowitz, Ruth Sommerfeld and Pearl Weinstein; two nieces, Muriel Horowitz and Arlyne Smith, and his close friend of 68 years, Linwood Dodge.
FUNERAL NOTICE — Memorial donations may be made to the Berkshire Humane Society, 214 Barker Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201. The Paciorek Funeral Home, 13 Hoosac St., Adams, is in charge of arrangements.