Memorial

Moses Berry, 93, of Cedar Rapids, died Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at Living Center East in Cedar Rapids. Funeral Service: 11:00 am Friday, February 2, 2018 at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories with visitation one hour prior to service. Burial: St. George Cemetery. 

Moses “Moe” was born February 26, 1924 in Waverly Iowa living most of his life in Cedar Rapids. He graduated from McKinley high school in Cedar Rapids on June 3, 1942. On October 30, 1942 during World War II, Moe enlisted in the United States Army Air Force where he was an AAF Air crew member with the 3035th Army Air Force based in the continental United States.  His specialization was an airplane and engine mechanic. He attended Army Air Force schools in Lincoln, Nebraska, Yale University New Haven, Connecticut, Niagara Falls, New York and Kingman, Arizona. 

On December 27, 1943, Moe changed specializations and was accepted into Aviation Cadet pilot training, later receiving a promotion to the rank of Corporal. He had an aeronautical rating classification of Aerial Gunner when he received orders to prepare for combat overseas, but World War II ended before he was deployed.  Moe received an honorable discharge on February 26, 1946, and was given the American Campaign, Good Conduct, and World War II Victory Medals.

His interest in flying never diminished after his military service, and he obtained and held a civilian private pilot’s license for many years afterward. A dedicated body builder as a young man, his performances included the “Mister Iowa” bodybuilding competition during the 1940’s, placing 2nd one year. While working as a bartender at the Armar Ballroom, Moe met and later married Roberta “Bobbie” Lawrence on March 20, 1949 and they remained together for fifty-seven years until her death in November of 2006.

He enjoyed league bowling carrying an average in the high 170’s, and boating expeditions with the family boat named “Moe’s Ark.” Operating a shoe repair/sales business for a number of years at the Town and Country Shopping Center in Cedar Rapids, he later worked at the Post Office there for over thirty years. Moe enjoyed volunteering time as a polling district worker, and was a member of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his two sons, Scott and Mark; five grandchildren; and one great grandchild. 

He was preceded in death by parents, George and Mary; sisters, Lena and Helen; brother, Carl; and wife Roberta.

Memorials may be directed to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in memory of Moses.