Alex Morris Berkowitz, 73, of Virginia Beach, passed away Friday, Aug. 18, 2017. He fought a short and courageous battle with cancer and was surrounded by loved ones throughout.
He was the beloved husband of Elise Zelinger Berkowitz for 50 years and father to Sheri Rosenberg (David), Jay Berkowitz (Cheryl) and Jeffrey Berkowitz (Mandy). He was the doting grandfather to his three grandsons, Noah, Evan and Jack. He was the younger brother of Sue Ellen Teach (Seymour) and was preceded in death by his mother and father, Bell and Jack Berkowitz, of blessed memory.
Born and raised in Norfolk, Va., Alex was a graduate of Maury High School and Old Dominion University. He was an entrepreneur who was successful in many ventures, and most recently as the founder and owner of First National ATM of Virginia for the last 25 years.
Alex was happiest surrounded by family and friends — with many, he celebrated over 60 years of friendship. Known as a gentle man, Alex always had a smile on his face and sincerely enjoyed the opportunity to make others around him happy. He never met a stranger and touched the hearts of everyone he encountered. He was a student of life and loved long chats, learning about other people.
Alex was an avid collector of vintage and muscle cars. He loved buying and selling rare vehicles and had a fascination for anything with a motor — including various boats, a Sears & Roebuck moped (which the family still owns), and once, even an electric bicycle. He frequently cooked Sunday family dinners — enjoying grilling and slow roasting meats.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to loving friends and family near and far who have sent their well wishes and have kept Alex in their hearts throughout his short battle. The family is especially appreciative of Dr. Barbara Parks in Virginia Beach and Dr. William Jarnagan and his team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York for their excellent and gentle care of Alex.
A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22, at Ohef Sholom Temple in Norfolk, Va. Alex will be laid to rest at a graveside service in Forest Lawn Cemetery. Following the burial, the meal of consolation will be held at Ohef Sholom Temple. The family will be sitting Shiva from 1 to 3 p.m. and 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23, and Thursday, Aug. 24, and on Friday 1 to 3 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes that you make donations to a charity of your choice.
Please continue to keep his memory in your hearts and forever remember his warm smile and kind eyes.
Share online condolences with the family at altmeyerfh.com.
