In Appreciation: Sally Berg

MILLERTON — When Sally Berg passed away last month our community lost a remarkable woman. She was wickedly funny, kind, generous and indefatigable. She devoted endless hours serving on boards of local charities and causes related to improving health. She was famous for being able to coax donations out of even the most reluctant giver. Who could say no to Sally?

Her friends were legion. Everyone wanted to be Sally’s friend and she had a gift for making everyone feel like they were her best friend. Her martinis were legendary. There’s probably not a bartender in the Tri-State area who doesn’t know how to make a “Sally Martini.”

She had an enduring marriage and was cherished by her children and grandchildren. She had bridge groups, reading groups  and golf groups. She trekked and sailed and traveled. Sally lived a full life.

But most remarkable of all, she accomplished all those things while fighting not one but three kinds of cancer for more than 50 years. Amazing. She established one of the country’s first women’s cancer survivor groups. She never gave up. And in the end, it was not cancer — but a stroke — that ended her life. Well played, Sally! You won.

Donations in Sally Berg’s memory may be sent to the North East Community Center, 51 South Center St., Millerton NY  12546.

Bob Murphy and Jack Lindsey

Ancram