James T. ("Bud") Berta Jr.

James T. Berta Jr. (Bud), 86 yrs. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday March 15, 2016 at Joliet Area Hospice. Preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary Berta and one beloved daughter Lili DePratt.  Survived by his loving and devoted wife of 66 years, Betty (Denewellis) Berta.  His beautiful life will forever be cherished by his children, Cathy (John) Dixon, Jim (Sherry) Berta, Jeff (Theresa) Berta and Candie Berta.  The proudest "Papa" of seven Grandchildren, John (Nicole) Dixon, Eric (Jen) Zola, Holly (Shawn) Creed, Sam, Jimmy, Jeff & Nikki Berta.  The best Great-Grandpa to Lexi and Jake Zola, Kellen Creed and Isabella, John IV and Sophia Dixon.  Loving brother of Dolores (Stanley) Malnar and JoAnn (Tony deceased) Starcevich.  Treasured by numerous nieces and nephews and special people in his life including Rudy and Janette Denewellis and Dan Alvarado.

Born on February 13, 1930 he was a lifelong resident.  Bud was retired from P.T. Ferro Construction after many long, hard years.  He enjoyed tinkering around with anything he could get his hands on; there wasn't anything that he couldn't fix.  The "Sunday funnies" were his favorite read.  Bud had a sense of humor and enjoyed working outside.  It was once said that Bud was "the nicest boss anyone had known". That was beyond true.  He was such a kind soul.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bud's name to Joliet Area Community Hospice.

A Celebration of Bud's life will begin on Saturday, March 19, 2016 with prayers in the funeral home chapel at 9:30 a.m. then driving in procession to St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Joliet for a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Elmhurst Cemetery in Joliet. Visitation will be Friday, March 18 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435. Arrangements entrusted to Pisut Funeral Services.