Friday, May 1, 2009


A man known for his generosity, business savvy, sense of humor and devotion to his family, Stephen Allen Berg passed away on April 16. He was 63.

Stephen was a fifth generation, pre-gold rush, San Franciscan. He was born at San Francisco Children's Hospital and lived in the city until moving to Atherton as a young child. He graduated from Menlo-Atherton High School in 1963.

Stephen was the ultimate entrepreneur, always looking for opportunities in unexpected places. Aside from a six-month stint working for a bank in Amsterdam after his college graduation from San Jose State, he always had his own businesses, from a foray into the courier business in his mid-20s to publishing, telecommunications and promoting Snoopy products in South Korea. For the past 15 years, he worked on building his group of businesses: H3R Clean Agent Specialists, H3R Aviation and H3R Performance.

"Stephen had the heart, soul and mind of an entrepreneur. No one could spot an opportunity like Stephen," said his wife Robin who was Stephen's soul mate for 17 years. "He was so admired by his employees, business associates and customers as the guy whom you could depend on to deliver as promised. He had high ethical standards and always found creative ways to take care of his customers' needs." Together, the couple started Gallery Bergelli in downtown Larkspur in 2000, based on their mutual love of art.

Stephen loved San Francisco-the restaurants, the walks, the symphony, the art. As a member of the Ross Valley Tennis Club, Stephen was an avid tennis player. He was known for his brightly colored clothes, reflecting his love of the sun, and for planning special, spontaneous trips for his family, who will miss him dearly.

Stephen is survived by his mother, Noyon E. Berg; wife, Robin Critelli; daughter, Lily; son, Chen; brother, Jonathon; sister-in-law, Susan; nephew, Jackson; and other loved aunts and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel E. Berg. A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, April 24, at noon at the Marin Arts and Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross, CA 94957.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation for the support and care of Dr. David Ogden throughout Stephen's illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Heartsent Adoptions International, 140 Brookwood Rd, #100, Orinda, CA 94563. Funds will be earmarked for the Heartsent Learning Solutions Program.

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