Jan H. Berry
August 22, 1947 ~ April 1, 2011
Jan Berry passed away on April 1, 2011 at the age of 63 in San Antonio, his home for the past 30 years. Born in 1947, Jan grew up in Kansas City, MO, graduated Park Hill High School in 1966, and served in the US Army from 1968-1970. Jan worked for Pioneer Concrete, and later started his own business Truck Repair and Maintenance in San Antoino. Jan loved cars the faster the better, but he never saw a motor he couldn't improve on. He formed Jan Berry Motor Sports in 1998 with team members Chuck Duffin, Vic Sobrino, Robert Duffin, Russel Duffin. They built cars and motorcycles to run exclusively at the Bonneville Salt Flat Speedway. In 2009 Jan achieved his land speed world record - in Class D/GT, by running 213.822 mph at Bonneville, and securing an elite membership in the 200 MPH Club. Jan married his gorgeous flaxen-haired high school sweetheart Patty Jahr - first in 1970, and then again 35 years later in 2005, when they adopted their grandchildren. Jan is survived by his beloved wife Patty Berry, and 3 children: Kristen Doak of Kansas City, Wesley Berry of San Antonio, Thomas Berry of Dallas, and 3 Grandchildren; Tyler, Heather & Tommy. He is also survived by his sister Carol Ward of Johnson County, KS, his brother Tom Berry of Kansas City, MO; his step-sister Jill Antoine of Wellsville, Ks, and his step-mom Joanne Fiehler of Wellsville, KS. Jan had a big heart, and friends too numerous to mention all over the Nation. His sense of humor was legendary. His generosity was notorious. His corneas were donated. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at the Meadowlawn Tribute Center 5415 E. Houston St. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to www.saltflats.com/save the salt.
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Dear Patty & Family: We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We have known, liked and respected Jan for many years. May God bless you during these difficult times. Richard Young & Family from Papa’s
So sorry to hear of another Park Hill “Class of ’66” member…. someday we’ll all have a reunion in another place. My family and I are so sorry for your loss, you are in our prayers.
Patti & Family I was very shocked and saddened with the passing of Jan. He has been a good friend of Rick’s and mine for many years. When Rick died, he was there for me with his warm smile and strong shoulder. My sympathy and love are with you all. God Bless You, Terry Brown
Patty: I was shocked to hear of Jan’s death. Very strange; I was thinking about him the other day; last time I saw him at one of the high school reunions smoking up the parking lot in his Camaro. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this trying time. My very best always, Jim McKee
Dearest Patty and Family,
This is very late and we do apologize, as we only learned of Jan’s Passing after your Christmas card was returned last year, and we were just looking it up this year before we sent your card. Our most heartfelt condolences. Jan was a blessed man, and Jason and I talk often about the memories they shared. Building Salt Flats Cars, Specialized Salt Flats Motorcycles, etc…
Great memories and smiles were created back in the day!
May he smile down upon you each and every day. We send out sincere love and happy wishes to you and your family this 2015 Christmas Season.
Love always, Chris and Jason Ehlers ~ Florida
Patty this just blew me away to hear this news. I hadn’t talked with him in a long time and started searching in the net to make contact. I hope you are well my beautiful friend….I’ll miss him forever and miss you as well!!! Willy, (Steve) Hendricks 918-569-7878