Jerome "Jerry" Berkowitz Obituary (1928 - 2014)

Jerry Berkowitz passed away Friday, January 10, 2014. Jerry was born in 1928 in Leavenworth, Kansas to Sarah and Barney Berkowitz. He was the oldest of three: Carol Hadesman and Lawrence (Barney) Berkowitz. Jerry was a graduate of the University of Illinois and immediately became involved in the clothing industry, establishing the Mister Guy clothing chain. Jerry was a lover of and dedicated himself to the Arts, to civil rights causes and his love of travel. Jerry was a member of many boards, including the Philharmonic and he was a founding member of the Friends of Chamber Music. Jerry was a man of true intelligence and imagination, a real renaissance man. He loved his family and friends and had an unwavering sense of fairness. Jerry was preceded in death by his daughter: Julie; brothers-in-law: Ed Rosen and Eddie Hadesman. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lennie; his children: Lee Berkowitz of Imperial Beach, California, Gail Berkowitz-Gifford and her husband, Robin Gifford and John Berkowitz and his wife, Debbie; his grandchildren: Jake Gifford, Katie Gifford Robinson and her husband, Jason, Sarah Berkowitz and Aaron Berkowitz; brother and sister-in-law: Barney and Ursula Berkowitz; sister: Carol Hadesman and sister-in-law: Elise Rosen. Many cousins, nieces and nephews, all who were forever touched by Jerry, also survive. Jerry requested no service, however a celebration of his life is to take place on January 19th at Oakwood Country Club between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. Donations may be made to one of Jerry's many beloved organizations: Young Audiences 5601 Wyandotte, K.C. Mo. 64113; or The Nelson, the Decorative Arts Department, 4525 Oak Street, K.C. Mo.64111.