William (Bill) R. Berger, age 82, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Bill was born to Jean and Rose Berger on March 13, 1943 and grew up in Jetmore, Kansas, where his deep roots in Western heritage were first planted. He carried those values throughout his life, remaining devoted to the Western way of life and spending many of his years on horseback, right up until the months before his passing. He attended countless rodeos and horse events and could often be found enjoying a classic western on TV. His love of horses and rodeo were a legacy he proudly shared with all his children, and many of his grandchildren continue to carry that passion forward.
Bill attended Sterling College and went on to build a life of service to others. After earning his Master degree from the University of Kansas in 1998, Bill was a proud Jayhawk Social Worker for well over two decades. Over the course of his career, Bill helped countless individuals facing behavioral health challenges. Many of those people later approached his family to share stories of his compassion, guidance, and the lasting healing he brought into their lives. In addition to his counseling work, Bill was a successful businessman who owned western stores in Hutchinson and Hays, Kansas. He raised his children to understand the importance of hard work and selfless giving, dedicating many years to volunteering with the Rodeo Special Olympics and other causes close to his heart. Through his mother’s lineage, Bill was a proud member of the Chickasaw Tribe of Oklahoma, and later in life he took meaningful steps to reconnect with and honor that heritage.
Bill was a loyal husband to his wife, Susie Berger. Bill was the proud father of three children; Bruce Berger of Ensign; Bret Berger and his wife Tammy of Dodge City, and Christina Boyd and her husband Brent of Dodge City. Bill was also blessed with two stepdaughters, Jill Miller and husband Michael of Kansas City and Amy Grabbe of Hays. He was a cherished brother to Linda Gass and her husband Randy and a proud grandfather to Ceara Berger, Cody Berger, Taryn Berger, Collin Berger, Connor Berger, Sloan Berger, Payton Berger, Ethan Grabbe, Liz Miller, Sam Miller, Maggie Housman, Elise Heim, as well as a growing number of great-grandchildren who brought him joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 infant siblings, and daughter in law, Marca Berger.
Known for his easy laugh and warm spirit, Bill loved being surrounded by friends and family and made those around him feel valued. Bill was known for his love of thrift—some might call it frugal, others might even say cheap—but it earned him the affectionate nickname 'Dollar Bill' from a lifelong friend who appreciated this endearing quality. Common knowledge was that Bill could fix anything with a little duct tape and bailing wire. Bill would often find humor in the everyday and would laugh so hard until the joy would leak from his eyes as tears. He treasured deep friendships that lasted decades. He gave miles on the road, hours in the stands, and lots of love from his heart to support his family down whatever path their own passions led them. Some of the fondest memories that his kids have are of him cheering on their dreams from the side of an arena. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the family he loved deeply, and the traditions he proudly carried forward.
Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, including his most loved dog and constant companion, Ginger.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday, January 9, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays with Fr. Fred Gatschet and Fr. Curtis Carlson, OFM Cap. officiating. Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Thursday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 on Thursday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains or for masses. Condolences and memories of Bill may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com