Richard A Berman
In Memory of A Quiet Advocate
April 18th, 1937 - December 31st, 2025
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From the Family:
Richard A. Berman, 88, passed peacefully in his sleep on December 31, 2025. “Dick” was born on April 18,1937 in Belvidere, IL. He attended Belvidere High School and then Rockford College. His interest in the telephone business led to the creation of Communications Development Company in which he was self-employed in Rockford for many years. Dick was active in many Rockford organizations including the Kiwanis, Northwest Community Development, Edgewater Neighborhood Association and Rockford Chamber of Commerce, to name a few. Dick was often the “Silent Partner” for his wife Barbara in her many community activities that included fundraising for the Arthritis Foundation, the Ethnic Heritage Museum, and other organizations. Dick was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and enjoyed living along the Rock River. Survivors include brother David (Susan) Berman; sister Kaye (James) Hughes; sister Cindy Hughes; and numerous offspring. A new family welcomed him when he married Barbara including daughter Diane (Kevin) Fitzgerald; son Greg (Marion) Erdmier; son Brad (Terri) Erdmier; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara; parents, Frances and Barney Berman; brother, Bernard Berman; sister, Dawn Berman; brother in law Richard Hughes, and son Jeff Erdmier. |
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DonateWe would like to extend a heartfelt thankyou to Dick’s caregivers, Nana Saiw and Vladas Jakavicvas, and many thanks also to OSF Hospice. Memorial donations can be made to Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 South Main Street, Rockford, IL 61101. Private services to follow.
Dick shared a long and meaningful connection with the Ethnic Heritage Museum, an organization that held special significance for both him and his wife, Barbara. While Barb was often the public face of fundraising and outreach efforts, Dick worked quietly and tirelessly behind the scenes. He contributed countless hours of hands-on office policies & procedures, maintenance and upkeep, ensuring the buildings and grounds were cared for, functional, and welcoming to the public. From repairs and problem-solving to the everyday tasks that keep a historic site running, Dick was always willing to step in wherever help was needed.
His skills, reliability, and willingness to do the unglamorous work made him an invaluable part of the Museum’s continued operation. Dick took pride in preserving the spaces that told the community’s stories, understanding that maintaining the physical structure was just as important as preserving the history within it. His legacy at the Ethnic Heritage Museum lives on not only in its programs and exhibits, but in the care and attention he devoted to the place itself—work that will be felt for years to come.
His skills, reliability, and willingness to do the unglamorous work made him an invaluable part of the Museum’s continued operation. Dick took pride in preserving the spaces that told the community’s stories, understanding that maintaining the physical structure was just as important as preserving the history within it. His legacy at the Ethnic Heritage Museum lives on not only in its programs and exhibits, but in the care and attention he devoted to the place itself—work that will be felt for years to come.
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A Message from the President
Dick Berman was one of those people who didn’t need recognition to make a difference. He just showed up and did the work—day after day, year after year. Whether it was fixing something that broke, keeping the grounds in shape, or quietly helping behind the scenes, Dick cared deeply about this Museum and made sure it was taken care of. I was personally influenced by Dick more than he probably knew. Watching the way he supported this place—and the way he supported Barbara—taught me a lot about what real commitment looks like. He believed in the importance of this Museum, but he never needed the spotlight. That steady, behind-the-scenes dedication has stayed with me and has shaped how I think about leadership and service. |
Dick’s presence will always be felt here. In the walls, the grounds, and the everyday work of the Museum, his care and generosity live on. We were incredibly lucky to have him, and he will be missed more than words can say.
— Jocelyn Hare McLaughlin
President, Ethnic Heritage Museum
— Jocelyn Hare McLaughlin
President, Ethnic Heritage Museum
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The Ethnic Heritage Museum invites those who wish to honor the memory of Richard A. “Dick” Berman to consider making a memorial donation.
Dick dedicated countless hours to the Museum, working quietly behind the scenes to maintain the buildings and grounds and support its mission of preserving and celebrating Rockford’s diverse cultural heritage. His commitment ensured the Museum remained a welcoming and cared-for place for generations to come. Memorial donations made in Dick’s honor will help continue this important work and sustain the Museum he cared so deeply about. Donations may be made online or mailed to: Ethnic Heritage Museum 1129 South Main Street Rockford, IL 61101 |