Obituary: Irvin R. “Swap” Berberich

Irvin R. “Swap” Berberich, age 77, of Ironton, WI, passed away peacefully at his home in Ironton surrounded by his loved ones on Sunday, January 9, 2022. He was born on March 20, 1944 in Westford Township, Richland County, WI, the son of Clarence H. and Arline M. (Anderson) Berberich. Swap went to vocational school for welding and blueprint drafting in Madison, WI. Swap worked as a welder at Dairy Equipment, he also worked at the Badger Army Ammunition plant, and did construction and concrete work with family for many years. Swap was the owner and operator at North of the Border in Ironton, WI for 52 years. He purchased the bar June 15, 1969, and he officially retired July 11, 2021. Swap served as a Trustee for the Village of Ironton board for many years until his passing. He also was a pillar to his community and funded several athletic and scholarship events in his son’s memory. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Jason “Mean” Lee Berberich, on July 13, 1985; his parents, and many beloved relatives and friends. 

He is survived by his fiancée, Cynthia L. Feltman of Ironton; daughter, Melissa Faith Berberich of Ironton; step-children, Jennifer Jones, Franny (Scott) Bartels, Tiffany Faber, Jim (Alicia) Kast, and Jane (Dan) Nobs; grandchildren: Jordyn (Matthew) Melvin, Taylor Jones, Beau and Bronx Bartels, and Thia Faber; great grandchildren: Landyn and Letti Luke, and Brooks Melvin; several step-grandchildren; brothers and sister, Lawrence (Carol) Berberich, Gordon Berberich, Lois (Dan) Andres, and Mark (Cindy) Berberich; along with many other relatives and friends.

A memorial service for Swap will be conducted at 5:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at the Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg with Chaplain Mike Amberg and Melissa Berberich co-officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 1:00 P.M. until the time of the service. A meal at Brewster’s Lanes in Reedsburg will immediately follow the service. Bruce (Julie) Bill, Swap’s cousin is helping the family with the meal preparations.