LORTON, Va. – Colonel (Ret.) Nathan R. Berkley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on Aug. 8, 2023 in his Lorton, Va. home surrounded by his wife and five children.

“Nate” was born on June 20, 1935 in Waterville to Frank Berkley and Adrienne Clukey Berkley and grew up with sisters Frances (Carter) and Paula (Talbot). He graduated from Waterville High School, (’53) where he met his high school sweetheart, Patricia “Pat” Tully. He earned a Business Economics degree at the University of Maine at Orono, and later earned his master’s degree of Education and Counseling at the College of William and Mary.

Nate and Pat married in 1957 and he began his nearly 30-year U.S. Army career shortly thereafter. His career included over 20 domestic and overseas assignments and three deployments, and he earned many commendations and awards in his military career.

People mattered most to Nate, and he was as an excellent role model in his integrity, kindness, and his willingness to help and guide others forward. Loving support, a good laugh, and a hug were part of every conversation with Nate. We are so grateful for the example he set for us all and will miss his contagious spirit and sparkling blue eyes.

Nate is survived by his devoted wife Pat; sister, Paula; daughter, Janice Baker (Brad), son, Ken (s/o Priscilla), daughter, Donna Fairbanks (Mike 2020), son, Tom (Debbie), daughter, Pamela Kipps (Bob); 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; nephew, Tim Bureau (Lisa) and sons; as well as many other beloved nieces, nephews; and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, Aug. 21 at Fairfax United Methodist Church in Fairfax, Va. (10300 Stratford Ave., Fairfax, Virginia) at 11 a.m. followed by a reception at the church. A formal burial with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery will be held for family at a future date.

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