REV. DONALD BERKBIGLER

PERRYVILLE -- The Rev. Donald L. Berkbigler, 62, of Perryville died Saturday, Sept. 7, 1996, at St. Mary's Health Care Facility.

He was born Nov. 11, 1933, in Perryville, the son of Walter Joseph and Opal Mary Henderson Berkbigler.

Berkbigler received his ordination for the Catholic priesthood from St. Mary's Seminary in Perryville, where he received his undergraduate degree in philosophy in 1956. He received his master's degree in chemistry from Southeast Missouri State University in 1971.

Berkbigler taught and preached at several Catholic facilities throughout the United States, including St. John's Seminary in Kansas City, St. Vincent's College in Cape Girardeau, Queen of Angels Seminary in San Fernando, Calif., St. Mary's Seminary in Perryville, the Cass Residence in St. Louis, Catholic University of America in Washington, Home Missions Center in Kansas City, Christ the Savior Church in Brewer, Most Precious Blood Church in Denver and St. Vincent's Church in Cape Girardeau.

He most recent assignment was associated with St. Mary's of the Barrens Church in Perryville. Berkbigler was very active in the marriage encounter movement.

Survivors include two nephews, Mark and Chris Nussbaum, both of Jackson, and a niece, Michele Schabbing of Gordonville.

He was preceded in death by a sister.

Friends may call after 5 p.m. today at St. Mary's of the Barrens Church in Perryville, where a wake service will be conducted at 7:30.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Burial will follow in the Vincentian Cemetery in Perryville.

Miller Family Funeral Home in Perryville is in charge of arrangements.