In Memoriam: Harvey David Berger, 1932-2024

It is with sadness that Vanier has learned of the recent passing of Harvey David Berger on October 3rd, 2024. Born on Plateau Mont Royal, Harvey was a true son of "The Main." He worked with his brother at their father's fruit and vegetable store on St. Laurent as a boy, attended Strathcona High School and held a long-lasting reverence for the institutions of his childhood like Wilensky's and Fairmount Bagel.

After graduating from McGill University, he moved to the United States with his wife in the early 60s where he worked in advertising and radio as a copywriter and disk jockey.

He returned to Montreal in 1971 and subsequently taught English and Holocaust Literature at Vanier College for 26 years. He also taught public speaking, combining his gifts of storytelling and elocution.

Besides teaching, Harvey had a passion for writing and performing and developed radio dramas for the CBC, acted in numerous films shot in Montreal and did stand-up comedy. He was nominated for an ACTRA Award in 1984 for best writer for the variety show As It Is. 

See the full online obituary published October 10, 2024 here.