Mel “Popi” Berkwitt, a Longtime East Fishkill Resident, Dies at 83

Mel “Popi” Berkwitt, 83, a resident of East Fishkill for 44 years and previously of Yonkers, passed away Tuesday, August 15, 2017 at Mount Sinai Hospital surrounded by his family.
Born on October 21, 1933 in Buffalo, Mel was the son of Daniel and Rachel (Gale) Berkwitt. On July 15, 1963 in Washington, D.C., Mel eloped with the love of his life, Betty Carney. On August 6, 1963, Mel and Betty were married at St. Peter’s Church in Yonkers.
Mel worked for the East Fishkill Highway Department as a heavy equipment operator for over 18 years until his retirement in 1995. Following his retirement, Mel kept himself busy recycling junk and bottles.
He was a Life Member of Hopewell Hose and was a member of the East Fishkill Rescue Squad and Fire Police for over 30 years. He loved to tinker and travel with his loving wife. He enjoyed watching his grandsons play hockey, lacrosse, football and wrestling. Mel was always more than willing to go out of his way to help others. He was an avid, lifelong Yankee fan. He will be deeply missed by his family and the many, many friends he has made along the way.
Mel is survived by his wife and best friend Betty; his children, Daniel Berkwitt and his wife CeCia of Wooster, OH, Thomas Berkwitt of East Fishkill, Lisa Berkwitt of East Fishkill, Kate Danvers and her husband Alan of New Milford, CT; his grandchildren, Kyle, Bennett and Quinn; his beloved girls, Gabby and Gracie; and granddogs, Lucy, Tyson and Lola. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Alvin.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. A Celebration of Mel’s Life will be held on Friday at 12pm at Hopewell Hose, 320 Route 376, Hopewell Junction.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to East Fishkill Rescue Squad. Please visit Mel’s Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com