Tragic News Viking PLayer Passes Away

OMG! This is truly a sad day. I've had the pleasure of knowing and playing with this outstanding gentleman, word can't describe how much of genuine, loving, soft spoken, respectable and special human being Jeff was. He was one hellova competitor, I always looked forward to lining up against berry, because he always and I mean always brought it, and he was always smiling out on the field, as if he new it was only a game and he loved every second of it. My prayers and love go out to his family and the Vikings organization, He was a man who loved God, and God loved him.

I concur!!!!

Anytime we lose a fellow player or teammate it is devistating to us all!! Makes us all remeber tomorrow's never promised and play every game as if it was your last!!!

Jeff Berry was one of the GREAT men I played with in this league! He was the first man to welcome me the year I showed up to tryouts. My second season, when I cracked a rib in a game, causing me to struggle breathing (asthma), he was the one who helped me off the field, got my shoulder pads and jersey off for me. In practice he made me a better player. A truly talented DE, I learned so much from watching him get to the QB after swimming by me But never talked trash, just taught me to stop him. He always smiled and laughed. Always was happy. It's truly a loss for the Vikings, the league, and the world. The one solisce we can take though–he is a man of god. Right now, he is in heaven watching down.
To the Berry family. I, my family, and many others will pray for you!!! Anyone who can, please update us on when there will be a service. I would encourage all who knew and played with Jeff to be there and show the difference he made in our lives.

Jeff is Viking Football! When he was there, he was unselfish. You ask him to do something he was 110%, no questions asked! Proud to say I know, Jeff Berry!!

Sincerely

Rico

It has been a minute since I have been on here. Due to recent events, of which I am still having a hard time coming to reality about, I feel the need to reflect on not just a teammate of mine but someone that I have come to consider a brother of mine. Jeff Berry and I shared more than the love of the game. We both shared a compassion for life and helping those around us. The many times that I had to move from place to place Jeff Berry was there. He was that kind of guy. He was always the one to rely on when it came time for moving. We also would always love to compete in who could make the best BBQ. I got him there, but he sure could make some great tasting sauce. We had some really great cook outs. Of the many things he confided in me about, I want to share one with who ever is reading this. We were talking about why we play the game of football. Jeff told me he plays and loves the game because of the people around him. It is like a family he said. So, to who ever is ready this and played with him on either side of the field, he considered you all family. Rest in Pease my brother.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Berry's and the Viking family. I played with Jeff for a few years back in the day and you never questioned his passion and effort when it came to the game of football. He knew one tempo and that was all out. I'm proud to have had the opportunity to have Jeff as a teammate and a competitor.
I remember going through walk throughs with Jeff and cringing when he'd line up over me, knowing I wasn't getting a half speed look as long as he was there. I'd get annoyed and look across and see that smile that all have talked about. He was one that makes this game a treat to be a part of.

R.I.P Jeff.

The world lost great person, I know I and the rest of us will miss your big barell chested laugh and smile. I loved playing beside you all the those years, you played the game going 100% every second. I will always remember you...

You were a great person and will be very missed by friends and Family.

I've known Jeff since he was a Sophomore at Snohomish High School. I had the pleasure of calling him a very close friend and teammate. Everyone that knew Jeff, and I am talking about a lot of people, loved him like a brother. Jeff was one of the most gracious, loving people that any of us has ever met. I have never met a more positive, happy person than Jeff. He was kind to everyone and always lit up the room with his giant heart and big smile. The world lost one of the true great people today and my heart and prayers go out to Jeff's entire family.

Save a spot up there for me big man...



With Love,


Tim Dennis
Offensive Coordinator, PNW Wildcats

Jeff is an inspiration to me. The man has always encouraged me and made me proud to be out there. We exchanged only a handful conversations over the past few years, but he always has something significant to say and a kind word. I'm going to miss those conversations. I grieve for his family, but I'm glad to know he's with the Lord, and that I'll see him again. Gonna miss you man.

Man i never knew Jeff but as a NWFL player and Family member may he rest in peace and have a safe journey. GOD BLESS him and the Loved ones he left behind. BiGG NiKo

I know I show up and say hi once in awhile to see how everybody is doing. This last summer when I stopped by to hi at end of the game I got to talk to Jeff for good while. Man to see him smile as we talked and his signature laugh that I can hear in my head as I write this. I remember when I first came into the Viking in 2000 and practicing against Jeff, I being an OT we like going against eachother alot. We would both laugh give eachother sh**, but slaping hands when we were done. Also times like when coming back from playing the Orcas and sitting in that resturant lounge at the Kingston ferry dock, Jeff, Burley,Joel, Chad, myself and others just sitting back and having good times. I see it like it was yesterday. I'm really gonna miss Jeff. He was, and is what a true football player, but above all one of the greatest guys I have been lucky enough to know.

Kyle Bigham

Jeff I will miss you man. You where one of a kind. It was just a few weeks back we were playing in the toys for tots game. I got a chance to talk and joke around like the old days. We talked about how are bodies hurt and this is great to play for the kids. you and I joked how you messed up on the anthem. Never a dull moment. I'm going to miss you bro but will never forget you. Much love JB. Rest In Peace.

Brandon Reyna

I didnt know him but,my heart gos out to you and your family.

#53 Jags Center

We lost you, a man who shared it all with us.
I have several memories with you.
But the best ones to me are the ones are the ones displayed bellow. The ones that reminded most of us why we were your friend.

Your laughter filled our lives.

Thank you for the many smiles you shared with all of us.