Kaye Berta

Published 3:48 pm Monday, May 12, 2025

February 9, 1938 – May 7, 2025

Kaye Eleanor Berta, age 87, passed away peacefully in her home on May 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on February 9, 1938, in Dowagiac, Michigan, to Archie and Anne (Schram) Gard, Kaye lived a life marked by devotion to God and her family.

Kaye was the beloved wife of Donald Berta, who cherished her deeply. On September 20, 1958, she married her soulmate, and together they shared 67 years of love. Kaye and Don enjoyed camping across the country and spending many happy summers at their lake cottage. Kaye’s favorite place to be was anywhere with Don by her side. It didn’t matter what they were doing—what mattered was that they were together.

Kaye was a devoted mother to her daughter, Lisa (Mitchell) Milliner of Osceola, and her son, Michael Berta of Granger. She cherished her role as a grandmother and found immense joy in the company of her six grandchildren: Christopher Milliner, Alli (Brett) Rayner, Carly (Charles) Oakley, Tori Milliner, Maddy Berta, and Adam Berta, along with her nine beautiful great-grandchildren.

Kaye was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Sue (Gard) Janke, and her brother, Durwood Gard. She is lovingly remembered by her sister-in-law, Gabriella, whose deep friendship brought her much joy. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, all of whom hold a special place in her heart.

Kaye and her husband, Don, were faithful members of Little Flower Church and longtime members of the Elk’s Lodge, where they spent many nights dancing alongside family and friends. She enjoyed antiquing with her sister, Sue, and their summer camping trips to Lake Michigan with their children. Kaye also enjoyed lunching with her friends and truly valued these friendships, some lasting over 67 years. She will be remembered for her loving heart, generous spirit, and the many lives she touched with her kindness and grace.

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Kaye Berta will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Palmer Funeral Home—Hickey Chapel 17131 Cleveland Rd. Visitation will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a service honoring her memory. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park in South Bend. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riley’s Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com