Russell Jay Berger

life story

Always turn the music up!

“We are the champions, my friends, and we’ll keep on fighting til the end”

-Queen

Russell Jay Berger

Russell Jay Berger passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, at his foster home, CountrySide Living in Grasston, Minnesota.

Russ was born on August 7, 1963, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, to his parents Roger and Irene Berger.

Known as “MacGyver,” Russ loved tinkering in the garage or barn and had a knack for fixing just about anything. He had a love for music and would always have Queen playing in the background. He worked as a mechanic for many years at Friendly Chevrolet, eventually becoming General Manager before moving on to Truck Champion at Carlson Toyota.

Russ enjoyed watching football, snowmobiling, golfing, and riding his bike to the lake with his daughters. More than anything, he believed life was meant to be fun.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the staff at CountrySide Living in Grasston—Kelli, Corey, Skylar, Jenessa, and Cami—for the amazing care they gave to our dad in his final months. We would also like to thank the St. Croix Hospice team—Karen, Bre, Ben, and Brea—for their kindness and support.

Russ is survived by his parents, Roger and Irene Berger; his brothers, Scott Berger and Barry Berger; his daughters, Jamie Berger, Chelsey Schaar, and Alicia Enerson; and many other loving family members and friends.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

July 18, 2026

Lake George Regional Park Parking lot, 3100 217th Ave NW, Oak Grove, MN 55011, USA

We will be located at Pavilion 5 near the boat launch from 10am-2pm please join us in celebrating our dad’s life at one of his favorite spots! There is a vehicle entrance fee.