Milford (Mel) Leroy Berg, resident of Vernon, BC, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, in the Vernon Municipal Hospital at the age of 83 years.

Mel was born in Sexsmith, AB, raised in Grande Prairie, AB, and attended Grande Prairie Composite High School. He completed his studies in barbering and obtained his certificate in 1960. Mel barbered in Grande Prairie until 1964, when he moved with his young family to Abbotsford, BC. There, he continued barbering until 2003. Once he was semi-retired, they moved to Missezula Lake, where Mel opened barbershops both at the lake and in Princeton, BC. In 2020, he retired and settled in Vernon.

Mel’s love for music led him to organize and sing in dance bands. This started in high school and continued for most of his life. He also sang in a barbershop choir and often at family gatherings. Mel loved people, travelling, fishing, sports, and most of all, his family.

Mel is sadly missed by his wife of 63 years, Marg; his daughters, Teresa (Mike) Kaszonyi and Cheri Jenkens; three grandchildren, Sean, Alicia (Daniel), and Caden; four great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren, Matt (Tori) and Michaela (Stewart); three step-great-grandchildren; brother Jim (Judy); sisters Darlene (Joe) Scruggs and Yvonne (Terry) Gorman; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Elaine Marie, and his parents, Irvin and Evelyn Berg.

Mel’s last will and testament requested there be no funeral service.

Interment will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Grande Prairie Cemetery (84 Ave and 112 St), followed by a musical celebration of life and luncheon. The location of the celebration of life will be announced at the interment. In honour of Mel, guests are welcome to participate by sharing their own musical talents.