Chris Berger

Christopher Arthur Berger, born on August 4, 1974, at Fort Leonard Wood Army Base in Missouri, lived a life filled with adventure, love, and a deep connection to nature. As the son of Army parents, Chris spent his early years moving around, calling various places home, including Burlington, Wisconsin; Glyndon, Minnesota; and Union Grove, Wisconsin, where he graduated from high school in 1992.

After high school, Chris pursued studies in wildlife management, though his academic journey took a different path. During this time, he began his career in construction, all while immersing himself in his love for the great outdoors. Whether fishing, bow hunting, or exploring nature, Chris's passion for the natural world was evident.

He traveled extensively, making memories across the globe in places like Jamaica, Thailand, Cambodia, China, and Mexico. An occasional scuba diver, he embraced every opportunity to connect with the world’s natural beauty and wonder.

In 2003, Chris returned to Fergus Falls, Minnesota, where he began working for Terry Welle Construction. It was during this time that he met Melissa, the love of his life. The two moved to Barnesville, MN, in 2004, where they built a life together with their daughters. In 2010, Chris and Melissa were married, marking the beginning of a beautiful chapter as a devoted husband, father, and later, a beloved papa to his three granddaughters, whom he affectionately called his "little birds." He was eagerly looking forward to adding two more little girls to the family next summer.

Chris is survived by his loving wife, Melissa; his daughters, Rhiannon Thorsteinson (Austin) and Destiny Swenson (Jacob); his granddaughters, Averly, Aubree, Emdyn, Alena and Hadley; his father, Arthur Berger (Linda); his brothers, Danny Berger (Rhiannon) and Aaron Berger; his stepfather, Jim Conway; as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and a niece and nephew. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, MaryLou and Walter Pender, and his mother, Mary Conway.

Chris's legacy will live on through the love he gave, the adventures he shared, and the memories he created with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held for Chris on September 28th from 2 to 6 p.m. at Dobmeier Funeral Home in Barnesville, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, an account has been set up at Midwest Bank for monetary donations to help the family with funeral expenses.