James Berberick

James (Jim) Andrew Berberick, 74, of Overland Park, passed away on March 9, 2015 at NorthCare Hospice House. He was born on December 5, 1940 to Jacob and Catherine (Best) Berberick in Topeka, KS . Jim is survived by his children Tiffany Knowles, Katrina Berberick and James B. Berberick, brother Joe Berberick and sisters Maryann Belden, Tressa Malecki, Marsha Bartley and grandchildren Conner Knowles, Celeste Ruisinger, Henry Ruisinger and Catherine Berberick. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Alice Berberick, brothers Bill Berberick, Larry Berberick, Don Berberick and sister, Nancy Reeb.

He attended the University of Kansas, earning an Engineering degree and was a member of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity where he served as a Chapter Officer and later as a Chapter Advisor. He served four years of Air Force active duty, completing Officer Candidate School and serving as an instructor at the Electronic Warfare School.

After active duty, he graduated with honors from the University of Kansas MBA program. While doing his post-graduate work in Lawrence, he entered the Kansas Air Guard out of Forbes Field, Topeka. He held multiple staff positions, retiring as a Lt Colonel from the 190th Air Refueling Group after eighteen years in the Air Guard (twenty-two years total service).

Most of Jim's career was spent as a management consultant and partner with firm Grant Thornton. He was also an entrepreneur, starting software companies and was most recently owner of two Curves fitness franchises.

Jim enjoyed watching sports, most especially KU basketball and enjoyed a good round of golf anytime of the year. Jim's boisterous laugh would fill a room and his friendly, welcoming spirit will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to NorthCare Hospice House, 2800 Clay Edwards Dr., 10th Floor, North Kansas City, MO 64116.