Charlene Ellen Berk

On August 8, 2025, Charlene Ellen (nee Whitmire) Berk was lovingly called home by her Lord. She was the beloved wife of 66 years to the late Frederick Louis Berk; devoted mother of Susan Berk-Elste and her husband Greg, and the late Sandra Russell and her husband Brian and the late Gary Berk and his late wife JoAnne.

Charlene was a cherished grandmother to Brandon Elste, Jesse Berk, and Darwin Russell, and is also survived by numerous loving nieces and nephews.

Blessed with a creative spirit and skilled hands, Charlene found joy in sewing—creating exquisite wedding gowns, prom dresses, and decorative pillows. She also crafted beautiful dolls and items for fundraisers, sharing her talents to bless others. She loved traveling, especially road trips exploring every corner of the United States, including cherished visits to Alaska and Wyoming, and most recently a special trip to Florida with her family.

A woman of deep faith, Charlene was a devoted member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran United Church of Christ, where she sang in the choir for over 50 years and was actively involved in many women’s ministries, including the Women’s Guild. Her warm spirit, unwavering faith, and loving heart touched the lives of all who knew her, and she will be remembered dearly.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Evangelical United Church of Christ from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Charlene will be laid to rest in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Zion Evangelical Lutheran United Church of Christ 7146 Golden Ring Road Essex, MD 21221 www.zionuccmd.com

The family deeply appreciates your love, kindness, and support during this time.