Obituary of William Berner Jr.

William Berner Jr. left this life January 3rd, 2023. We suspect he is now hiking and running with several beloved dogs who have run on ahead.

William was born in Amsterdam, NY in 1935 to William Berner Sr. and Mary Olbrych Berner. He graduated from Wilbur H. Lynch High School and continued his studies at Union College, graduating with a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering. He then went to RPI and obtained his Masters Degree and further graduate study at the University of Florida. He served briefly in the United States Air Force. He was employed as an environmental engineer for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation until his retirement.

Bill was an accomplished golfer, an Adirondack 46er, and very involved with dog rescue, dog agility training, and environmental protection. He enjoyed nature photography, classical and folk music, and raising and releasing endangered monarch butterflies.

He is survived by Karl, Kristen, and Joyce Berner; and his dear dogs Nelly Bly and Liza Jane. Heartfelt thanks to Tom, Anne, Donna, Katherine, Matt, and Ray for being there for Bill.    

A service of remembrance will be held on Thursday January 12, 2023 at 7PM at Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY 12010. Relatives and friends are invited and may call prior to the service from 5PM to 7PM. 

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Good Shepherd K9 Rescue, 3313 Mariaville Road, Schenectady NY or online at k9adopt.org; Peppertree Rescue, P. O Box 2396, Albany, NY 12220 or online at httpspeppertree.org; or Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Blvd. Albany, NY 12208 or online at Community Hospice | Make a donation to support our work.