Raymond A. Berman

It is with great sadness that the family of Raymond A. Berman of Auburn announces his passing away peacefully on January 2, 2026 at Auburn Community Hospital.

Raymond was born in Syracuse, the son of the late Morris and Esther(Sandler) Berman and has resided most of his life in Auburn. Ray or” Coach”, as he was affectionately known, was a graduate of Central Tech High School and received his Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Cortland, where he also competed for the Red Dragons on their gymnastics team. Although competing in all events the pommel horse was his specialty.

After 35 years as a physical education teacher(mostly at East Middle School) and the Boys’ Varsity Gymnastics coach for the Auburn Maroons, Ray retired from the Auburn City School District. His passion and love for teaching and coaching never wavered over the years. In retirement , Ray discovered the excitement of the casino, especially the slot machines. His travel plans always included checking out the casinos along the way and at his final destination. He was fairly lucky too.

Ray was a member of the Elks Lodge #474, the New York State Gymnastics Officials Association, NYSUT and served on the Board of Directors of Congregation B’nai Israel before its closure. He will be greatly missed by all of his friends, colleagues and family.

A devoted grandfather, father and husband, Ray loved his family, especially his six beautiful grandsons whom he affectionately called “his little pistols”, because of their energy and spunk.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Marianne (Rockmaker) Berman, two sons, David(Jill) Berman,  Jeffrey (Erin) Berman, six grandsons, Parker, Jacob, Wesley, Mitchell, Dean and Gus, two brothers, Leo(Diane) Berman, Charles Berman, niece Jennifer, nephew Julian, two sisters-in-law and several cousins. In addition to his parents,Ray was also predeceased by his two brothers, Irving(Hong) and Michael(Carol) Berman.

 A calling hour will be held Sunday, April 12th from 10:00 am until 11:15 am, followed  by the Elk’s ritual with spiritual and  memorial services  to begin at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to a charity of one’s choice.

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