September 17, 2014

Berger remembered as ‘a darn good guy'

Tom Berger, founder of the Seattle landscape architecture firm Berger Partnership, died Sept. 11 at age 69 from complications of Parkinson's disease.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Assumption Catholic Church, 6201 33rd Ave. N.E.

Berger's career started in 1968 with Chaffey Zumwalt. He founded Berger Partnership in 1971.

Berger

He was named an honorary member of the American Institute of Architects in 2005 and a fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects in 2006.

Berger's firm said in a statement that for more than three decades he worked on projects that have become emblematic of Northwest design and landscape traditions, including the REI Flagship Store, Two Union Square and IslandWood on Bainbridge Island.

He also worked on houses and designed parks, golf courses, wineries and public spaces here and abroad.

Berger embraced the notion of “loving what you do,” the firm said. He left a legacy of inspirational projects, and succeeded thanks to his work ethic, attention to detail and ability to adapt.

The firm said Berger loved the spectacular environment of the Northwest and its diverse palette of native plants. All his projects were grounded in these elements, and they strongly influenced his approach to design.

Berger began learning about plant materials while working at the family nursery. His expertise grew throughout his practice as a landscape architect and owner of a specialty nursery on Whidbey Island.

He was a university lecturer and an adviser to the landscape architecture departments at Washington State University and University of Washington. He also was a board member of the Arboretum Bulletin, Washington Arboretum Foundation and WSU Spokane Interdisciplinary Design Institute.

Berger received local and national awards from the American Society of Landscape Architects as well as the Audubon Society, Seattle Design Commission and Sunset magazine.

The firm said Berger was a friend, mentor, leader and an inspiration — though he would prefer to be remembered simply as a “darn good guy.”

Donations can be made in Berger's name to the Seattle Children's or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.