Obituary of Eric B. Berman

Eric B. Berman – faithful husband, loving son, devoted father, loyal friend and consummate professional – died suddenly Sunday afternoon at his home in Clifton Park at the age of 64. He leaves behind his wife, Cathy, two grown children, Meghan and Michael, a sister, Judy, and his mother, Helen. Eric, a native of Plainview, Long Island, lived most of his adult life in Clifton Park. He held a number of top positions at several pharmaceutical companies, including Genentech, Amgen, Elan, Eisai and Novo Nordisk. At the time of his passing, he was Director, Healthcare Market, at Genentech, where he spent the last 12 years of his professional life. Eric was the son of Helen Gilbert of Plainview and the late Martin Berman, and was also raised by his late step-father, David Chipkin. Growing up on Long Island, he developed a life-long allegiance to the New York Mets and Giants. He earned a BA at SUNY Brockport, majoring in business, and later earned an MBA at Union College. It was at Brockport that Eric met his wife, the former Cathy Nichols. While he was proud of his professional success, he was most proud of Cathy and their two children, Meghan Chappell (and her husband Joseph), and Michael. He was always there for Meghan and Michael, and was a familiar presence at their various activities, including chorus concerts, ice skating competitions, lacrosse, rowing, and ice hockey. Throughout their 38 years of marriage, Eric and Cathy enjoyed travel. They had adventures in Alaska, Hawaii, European countries and the Pacific coast, including many trips to California. Eric enjoyed fine dining, entertaining, skiing, concerts, smoking meats for barbeques and anything that allowed him to spend time with Cathy. He especially enjoyed traveling with his children, always wanting to expand their horizons with new experiences. Eric was truly a people person – there was nothing he wouldn't do for those he loved. Eric was known for his work ethic, integrity, vision, people skills, and his endearing sense of humor. In addition to his family and professional commitments, Eric was active in the community and believed in giving back. He was on the Board of Directors of the Alzheimer's Association, the American Diabetes Association, as well as the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy. Services will be held Sunday, January 26 with calling hours from 1:00 to 2:00 followed by a 2:00 service at Catricala Funeral Home, 1597 Route 9, Clifton Park. A private interment for the family will follow in spring. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be directed to LifeWorks Community Action in Ballston Spa.