Edwin W. Berns, 58, an accomplished competitive water skier, died
Thursday, February 19, 2009, at home on Otter Pond in Georges Mills,
NH.
He was born February 20, 1950, in Jamestown, NY, the son of Gilbert and
Marian Berns (Griese). He graduated from Bemus Point High School in
1968 and the University of Buffalo in 1972.
For most of his adult life, he worked in the printing and paper
industry in Vermont and New Hampshire (including with Ron Anderson at
Adworks in Waitsfield) and was most recently promoted to vice president
for Maine and New Hampshire for Lindenmeyr-Monroe, located in
Manchester.
Berns was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed carving decoys and, most would
agree, was happiest on his beloved Otter Pond. He loved teaching
others, especially children, how to water ski and wakeboard. He brought
nationally ranked athletes to the pond and offered many clinics. He was
also a competitive and accomplished water skier, always striving for
that 32/off.
The center of Berns's life was his family and friends. He was a devoted
husband, passionate about his two children, and always generous and
welcoming with his many friends. Family members include his wife of
more than 20 years, Toni (Smith) Berns; a son, Wynn Berns; a daughter,
Taylor Berns, all of Georges Mills; a brother, Donald Berns of Sun City
Center, FL; and a sister, Maryann Hart of Boyertown, PA.
A memorial service was held at The First Baptist Church, 461 Main
Street, New London. Chadwick Funeral Service of New London is in charge
of the arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to American Water Ski Association
development team, c/o Ed Berns Memorial, P.O. Box 234, Georges Mills,
NH 03751; or to the charity of one's choice.
