Iris was born in Tacoma, Washington on November 3, 1929. She moved with her family to Fresno, California in 1938 where she met Doyle Berry, who she would eventually marry in 1951. Iris and Doyle had four children between 1953-1960 and she soon settled down in Selma, California. She was an active member of Pella Lutheran Church, and served in multiple roles. Iris was kept busy helping out with countless church, school and Scouting activities for her three boys and daughter. She was a preschool teacher for the City of Selma at Lincoln Park and co-founder of “Beginners World” preschool in Selma. The majority of her teaching career was spent with Hamm’s Schools in Fresno.
An animal lover since she was a little girl, Iris spent her life caring for and interacting with her many four-legged friends. Iris raised and showed Old English Sheepdogs and in the early 1980’s, transitioned her attention over to Bearded Collies (“Beardies”). She would train her dogs in obedience, Agility, and Flyball, and was sought out by many as an expert in her field. Iris enjoyed spending time with friends and family, and will be missed by many.
She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Berry of Clovis; daughter Katrina (Steven) Ashlock of Tulare; seven grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Iris is preceded in death her parents, Emil C. and Bertha E. (Duffy) Jahnsen; brother, Bill Burgstahler; sons Chris Berry and Scott Berry.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8
