Lawrence P. Berlen Sr.

Lawrence “Larry” P. Berlen SR., 88 of Bonita Springs, passed away on October 4th of 2020 surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Michele (neé Vatalaro) Berlen. Larry was born on September 28th, 1932 in Jersey City, New Jersey, to the late Lorenzo and Frances (neé Abbatecola). Upon graduation from high school, he followed in the footsteps of his beloved father and brother Frank and joined the military, serving in the United States Air Force. Larry spent his time stationed primarily in Germany and Italy. While serving, Larry received training in aircraft mechanics and engineering and was the crew chief of a team who maintained the B-29 “Superfortress” aircraft. During his service he was also stationed in West Palm Beach and fell in love with Florida, vowing to retire here one day. With a continued passion for service, Larry also volunteered as a member of the National Guard for many years. After completion of his honorable service to his country he moved on to learn to fly Ultra-light planes and pursue obtaining his pilots license. Larry earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Rutgers University, while working in international finance for Western Electric Corp and then AT&T where he met the Love of his life Michele in 1988. He retired and eventually he and Michele relocated to Bonita Springs and were wed overlooking the Gulf on Valentines Day in the year 2000. Larry lived life to its fullest and was deeply loved by his family and friends. He was known for his amazing kind heart with a willingness to lend a helping hand to everyone. He had a witty sense of humor like no other, bright blue eyes and beautiful smile. He enjoyed gardening, photography, being outdoors bird watching, exploring nature and flying his specialty kites and mini model airplanes. Above all Larry loved spending time with family and friends, sharing his wisdom, childhood memories and positive outlook on life. He will be forever missed. Larry is survived by his beloved wife Michele (neé Vatalaro) Berlen. Father to Sandra L. Smith and husband David of FL, Lawrence P. Berlen Jr. and wife Nancy of FL. Allyson Berlen-Jelnicki and Husband Walter of FL, Cathleen Gallagher and fiancée Marian Dziak of PA. Brother to Nicholas “Nicky” Berlen and his wife Susan of Fl, Marion Berlen of NJ, and Carmella “Millie” Berlen of NJ. Grandfather to Deanna M. Berlen, Lawrence “Larry” P. Berlen II, Shannon A. Corbley, Courtney L. Mione and husband Gino, Emily Gallagher, Tyler Gallagher, and Hannah Gallagher. Great-Grandfather to Austin, Wyatt, and Mila. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Lorenzo and Frances (neé Abbatecola) Berlen; siblings the late Frank Berlen and the late Antionette “Annie” Berlen. Services will be announced at a future date and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation www.themmrf.org Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Lawrence P. Berlen Sr.

September 28, 1932 - October 4, 2020