Charles J. Berry, 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after a brief illness on October 4, 2009. A lifelong resident of New Bedford, he was the loving and devoted husband of Maura (Sheerin) Berry to whom he was married for 59 years.
Born in New Bedford, he was the son of the late James and Lillian Berry.
A graduate of Holy Family High School and Bryant College he had worked at Cornell Dubilier Electronics as an accountant before owning and operating Frates Drive-In on Somerset Avenue in Taunton for many years. He then worked at CETA/JTEC in New Bedford until his retirement.
A regular Army Veteran of World War II, he enjoyed sailing, gardening, and spending time with his wife and family.
He is survived by his wife Maura and two children, James Berry of Framingham and Maureen Costa and her husband Gilbert Costa of Acushnet; his three grandchildren, Matthew Costa and his wife Rachael Costa of Dartmouth, Andrew Costa and fiancée Rebecca Panek of New Bedford, and Melissa Costa and companion Paul Jorissen of New Bedford; two great-grandsons and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Veronica Bolduc of Taunton and Margaret Sitarz of Westport.
In accordance with his wishes, he was cremated and his funeral service was private. He was buried with full military honors at St. Mary's Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to a charity of your choice. For on-line condolences, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.