Craig Stephen Berberich

CRAIG STEPHEN BERBERICH, age 75, of Waseca, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family on Monday, November 6, 2023, due to a massive stroke he had on November 3, 2023. 

Craig was born on October 18, 1948, in Mankato to Clifford and Mildred (Dukerschein) Berberich. He graduated from Mankato High School in 1967. After high school Craig enlisted into the United States Navy. A highlight of his time serving was “Brother Duty” when he served alongside his brother, Larry. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Craig furthered his education at Mankato State University where he earned his bachelor's degree in Natural Resources. On September 30, 1972, Craig was united in marriage to Theresa Coyour at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Mankato. They moved to Waseca in 1978 where they raised their two children. He spent his career with the Minnesota DNR fisheries until his retirement in 2010.

Craig was a true outdoorsman and conservationist. He was happiest when outdoors, hunting, fishing, and trapping which followed him into his retirement as he started a bait and EBAY business. He took countless hunting trips with his son to South Dakota, and Colorado over the years. He also took trips with Theresa to Texas in the winter. He loved to volunteer and share his passion of the outdoors with children. He especially loved teaching his grandson to fish, creating a special bond.  His grandson’s love of fishing gave Craig great joy. Craig also had a great interest in U.S. and world history, especially the events of WWII. He had a heart for others, willing to befriend most. Craig was one of kind as many could attest to. He was a strong-willed man who wasn’t afraid to share his opinions. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waseca. Craig cherished the time he spent with his family and friends and was always up for a good time. He lived his life to the fullest and will be greatly missed. 

Craig is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Theresa of Waseca; children: Steve Berberich of Sioux Falls, and Julie (Tim) Johnson of Rochester; grandchildren: Kinsley and Carter Johnson; siblings: Larry Berberich, Brad Berberich, June Berberich, and Sherry (Dave) Vant Hul; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Don (Kathy) Coyour, Cindy Helder-Gary, Doug Coyour, and Roger Coyour; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law; Clyde and Lois Coyour; sister-in-law, Susan Berberich; brothers-in-law; Gary Coyour, and Rex Helder. 

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 PM on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca. No formal visitation will be held on the day of the service.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waseca. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Mankato.