Elmer Ben Berger

Elmer Ben Berger, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend died peacefully in Holladay, Utah on June 3, 2021 at the age of 94.

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Elmer was born on July 21, 1926 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Benjamin and Constance Stauffer Berger. Elmer spent most of his childhood in Salt Lake City, except during the depression when his family spent time with relatives in Cache Valley. During WWII, Elmer served as a Seaman in the United States Navy.

He met and married the love of his life, Nelda Young Berger on April 1, 1947. Their love affair continued for nearly 70 years until she passed away in December of 2016.

Elmer built a very successful construction business specializing initially in the lath and plaster business. Plaster renovation of old existing buildings was a specialty of his and over the years his company completed the restoration in several historic buildings, most notably the City and County Building. His company completed projects in Utah, Nevada, Idaho and Wyoming. His company was the first to introduce spray on fireprotection to steel beams in lieu of hand applications. He was President of the Utah Subcontractors Association local chapter of the American Subcontractors Association and was instrumental in the formation of the Builders Bid Service, a bid depository which enhanced fair biding practices. He provided numerous jobs for his immediate and extended family as well as countless others.

Elmer had a bit of a wandering spirit. During his retirement he saw much of the United States in his motorhome, traveling with friends and family. He loved fly fishing on the rivers of Utah, Montana and Wyoming. He always had a boat and searched for the big fish at different lakes.

Elmer was an avid golfer and was long time member of Bloomington Country Club, where he served on the Board and as President.

Elmer is survived by a daughter, Leigh Widerburg (Ric); son, David Berger (Christy); sister, Jane Brough (Gary); brother, Steven Berger (Sally); 3 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister and a grandson.

The family wishes to express gratitude for the kindness and compassion shown to Elmer by the Sunrise Senior Living Staff and by Brio Hospice. A special thanks to Amy Flynn for her continued support and kindness over the past four years.

A private memorial service will be held in Elmer’s honor. Please take a moment to eat a snickers bar and remember him in your own way.