David Berbert

David Bruce Berbert, 64, passed away on October 9, 2016 in his home in New Orleans, Louisiana. In death, he is preceded by his Parents, August George Berbert and Ethel Mae Strathy and his favorite dog, Dreyfus. Treasured and devoted husband to his wife of 43 years, Suzanne Coyle Berbert; adored brother of Nancy Phillips; proud and devoted father of his three girls; Daisy and husband Daniel Pate; Jade and husband Tony Heggins, and; Carly and husband Christopher Mattingly; cherished Uncle and cousin. Fun-loving grandfather to his seven grandchildren; Lavender and Violet Pate; Noah, Dayton, Everest and Coyle Heggins, and; Jasper Mattingly; never missing an opportunity to sing silly songs, dance like a fool, make ice cream sundaes and spoil them with presents and trips to Pensacola Beach. Papa Dave made every day a special occasion to be remembered. Dave was an irreplaceable man who inspired all who knew him through comedy and wisdom. Dave put all his energy into his family and friends and took great the many accomplishments of his children. He helped them meet adversity with ease. At work, he was a mentor and an expert in his field. His intelligence led him to receive multiple advanced degrees and receive numerous awards and accolades during his 36 years working for the Department of Defense; yet still he was known for using humor as a tool to motivate and encourage others. His Slidell community knows him as ‘Coach Dave’ for the countless nights and weekends he spent leading his daughter’s soccer teams to victory. Dave’s infectious personality combined with his uncanny ability to connect with people led him to be known as nothing less than the life of the party, and as such; he never missed an opportunity to get on his back and perform his favorite dance move ‘the alligator’ a tradition that will be carried on. The fondest memories of Dave are in the countless parties, conversations and spontaneous gatherings that he created with his ability to whip up tantalizing Cajun dishes with ease. David lived every day to the fullest and led others to the same. Dave was a Mardi Gras King, rode in Endymion for years and frequented every festival that his favorite city, New Orleans, offered… oh, and he could second line with the best of them. Dave embraced a love of travel by spearheading annual family vacations across North and South America. He encouraged his family to become educated through the world around them. Some of his favorite years were spent living in Germany, where he connected to his genealogical roots discovering living relatives in remote islands of the Norwegian Peninsula. During this time he visited 43 countries across multiple continents. He truly had a joie de vivre through life’s ups and downs and a knack for nurturing this spirit in times of sorrow and celebration. Dave had a presence, dignity and wisdom born out of overcoming hardships and being a support to those around him. He never missed an opportunity to insert laughter and met each day with enthusiasm to be a support and example for his family and friends. He has encouraged and inspired many. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the evening visitation at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home on Thursday, October 13, 2016 from 5 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 14, 2016 at St. George’s Episcopal Church in New Orleans at 12:00 NOON with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Louis Cemetery #3.