Tag Archives: Class of 1969

Robert T. Onkey ’69

Robert Theodore Onkey age 67, of Norwalk, CT, passed away on February 5, 2018 at his home. Robert was born in Bridgeport, CT on September 28, 1950. He was predeceased by his parents Robert Lee and Gladys Mary (Kost) Onkey as well as his brother, Peter Thomas Onkey.
Robert spent his earlier life on both sides of the U.S. / Canadian border. Robert attended Williston Academy in Easthampton, MA and then completed his undergraduate studies at the University Of Western Ontario. He became a magazine journalist in Toronto, Canada and later went on to combining his passion for SCUBA diving with his career to form his own company offering Commercial Diving services. Bob, as he was known to most, loved the water and was happiest whether he was in it, on it or under it. Robert was a kind, loving, compassionate person who loved animals as much as he did people. His cat Sammy was his final companion. Despite life’s challenges, he never lost sight of the people that were most important in his life. Robert was as unique an individual as a person can be and he will be greatly missed by the many, many people whose lives crossed paths with his.
Survivors include his step-mother, Janet Onkey, and numerous cousins.

Mark R. Berman ’69

 

Mark R. Berman, a fixture of the local business community who enjoyed a second career as a college administrator, died at his home in Williamsburg, MA on Friday, May 5, 2017, after a brief illness. He was 65.

Berman graduated from Williston Academy in 1969. He earned his undergraduate degree from Syracuse University in 1973, where he lettered in men’s swimming. He obtained an MBA and law degree from Syracuse in 1976. In 1977, Berman joined the management of Yale Genton, the venerable West Springfield clothier started by his grandfather. He served as general manager, vice president and eventually president of Yale Genton. In 2008, Berman followed his passion for education and joined the administration of American International College in Springfield as associate vice president for educational enterprise. He later became executive vice president for administration. During his tenure at AIC, Berman was instrumental in a number of major initiatives, including significant capital improvements on campus.

Throughout his business career, Berman devoted his time and talents to a host of local institutions, including as a board member at the Clarke School for the Deaf, the UMass Fine Arts Center, the Springfield Library and Museums, and Baystate Health Systems. He was a past director of the West Springfield Chamber of Commerce and a corporator at the Springfield Institute for Savings. His colleagues and associates will remember him as a leader and mentor who was wholeheartedly devoted to the institutions of which he was a part. He was a man of great personal dignity, and afforded that same dignity to everyone he met.

Berman is survived by his loving wife, Martha G. Baker; his stepchildren, Michael C. Moran and Jennifer E. Norris, and their spouses, Melissa M. Moran and William J. Norris; and his grandchildren, Claire, Ryan, Liam, and Henry. With Martha, Mark joyfully left the office behind, traveled the world, improved his golf game, read voraciously, mastered the grill, perfected the gimlet, relaxed on the beach in his beloved Westport, welcomed the arrival of four grandchildren, and relished in his new role as their “Papa.”

Gary Mysorski ’69

MysorskiGary James Mysorski, 64, passed away at his home in Rockport, TX February 23, 2016. He was born in Northampton, MA August 18,1951 to Benjamin and Marjorie Mysorski. Gary graduated from Williston Academy in 1969.

Gary spent nearly 30 years with the YMCA, both domestically and abroad, getting the most enjoyment from his involvement with youth and aquatic programs. Gary met the love of his life while working at day camp in San Antonio. His tenure with the Y eventuality led him to Rockport, where “every day felt like a vacation.” Gary enjoyed the sights, activities, and most of all the people of this community, where both his children graduated high school. Gary was very active in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kiwanis, the Art Center, and volunteered in various activities within the community. In 2001, Gary found his calling developing and directing programs with Port Aransas Parks and Recreation – all the enjoyment of the work he had grown to love. After 13 years, he retired to spend his time with Genie travelling, visiting friends, and enjoying the outdoors, the atmosphere, and the lifestyle that this community provides.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years Genie Mysorski; sons, Geoff Mysorski and his wife Laura, Matt Mysorski and his wife Katie; sister, Jill Morrill and her husband Jim; grandchildren, Milo and Sebastian, and many dear friends and relatives.

Bion Howard ’69

Bion HowardThe building performance industry has lost another friend with the passing of Bion D. Howard on 11/21/2011.

Bion was a tireless advocate of home energy ratings and building science. His background includes service with the National Association of Home Builders, the Alliance to Save Energy, NAHB Research Center, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) and consulting as the owner of Building Environmental Scientist and Consulting (B.E.S.T.). Mr. Howard also served on the RESNET Technical Committee.

RESNET Executive Director Steve Baden commented, “I had the pleasure to work closely with Bion on a number of initiatives ranging from the Department of Energy/Housing and Urban Development National Collaborative on Home Energy Ratings and Energy Efficient Mortgages to the planning committee of the Affordable Comfort Conferences. He was a tireless advocate for building science and home energy ratings. Everyone who worked with Bion appreciated his technical expertise and commitment. The building performance industry has loss a good friend.”

John Joseph Bergen III ’69

John BergenJohn Joseph Bergen III passed away March 26, 2014.

A man of generosity, integrity, precision. Dedicating his mathematical and scientific aptitude to a career in Aerospace Engineering, earning three honorary Phd’s. No brag here, nor for his creative and artistic brilliance, developing graphics software and interactive entertainment before its time. Well done, John.

But his steaks, keep ’em rare, artichokes tender. Foodie, palate pleaser, environmentalist at heart, east coast to west, rock climbing to riflery, wingtips or white tennies, his character always true. Another round, drinks and ammo, another drag, cigarette and Boss 302.

We will watch Cosmos.XO Rhonda, John IV, Jacqueline, Wendy, Mimi, and friends.