Arnold H Berger

Arnold H. Berger, a long-time educator who touched many lives, died July 14 at his home in Lake Worth, Fla. Arnie was born June 14, 1926, to Louis and Rose Berger in Syracuse, N.Y., where he grew up. After serving in Europe during World War II, he returned to his home town and began attending Syracuse University. There he met soon-to-be dental hygienist Shirley Berman. They were married in 1950, beginning a lifetime of mutual love and support. During his career, Arnie served as a coach, principal and, for many years, an assistant superintendent of the Syracuse City School District. He played a significant role in guiding the district through very difficult times in the turbulent 1960s and 1970s. After retiring, he was recruited as a consultant by the U.S. Department of Education. Arnie had many personal interests, but perhaps nothing more so than playing golf, which he could do year-round after moving to Florida in 1998. He could brag (but didn't) of having three holes-in-one, an amazing feat for an amateur. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; son James Berger; daughters Nanci Berger, Ronni Berger, and Louise Berger Andersen; and five grandchildren, Jordan Small; Joel Williams; Daniel and Leah Stoller; and Jaek Andersen. He will be greatly missed.