Daniel J. Berlitz, 72, of Drums passed away peacefully Wednesday at his home in the arms of his loving wife.

Born Oct. 1, 1949, in Hazleton, Daniel was the son of the late Henry C. and Catherine (Piskel) Berlitz.

Daniel attended West Hazleton High School, where he graduated in 1967. He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and the high school track team where he enjoyed throwing the javelin and shot put. Post-high school graduation, Daniel attended Luzerne County Community College. He later enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps and graduated with pride from Parris Island, S.C. He served during the Vietnam War.

Daniel will be remembered most for the great love he had for his family. He adored and cherished his wife, June. They were often seen holding hands and sharing their affection with one another. Dan and June's love story was one of a lifetime. Many days they reflected on their deep connection together by dancing to their favorite songs: "Look at Us" by Vince Gill and "Remember When" by Alan Jackson.

Daniel was an avid lover of animals great and small. He was a gentle giant. Dan's happiest moments were spent in the woods camping and fishing. He especially loved vacationing with family at the seashore, traveling to various points in Florida and Las Vegas and basking in the sun of the Jamaica islands. Dan also liked played cards, dominos and dice games with his wife, children and grandchildren. Many days, Dan would ride his Harley-Davison motorcycle across the state with June and their buddies. He even ran a personal tattoo business for years.

Daniel always looked forward to the holidays. He would make the celebrations perfect. He consistently built a flawless Christmas platform, ran a train set for his children and grandchildren to enjoy and had enough presents for everyone so it felt as if you entered Santa's Workshop at the North Pole.

Often you could find Dan outside his house as you drove past. Many days, he would be proudly adjusting his Semper Fidelis and American flags before sitting on the front porch. Other days, you would see him cutting the grass while wearing his farmer's hat and smoking a cigar. During the summer time, Dan tended to his vegetable garden and purple grape vines in preparation for harvest. He loved making homemade jelly. "Pap's Jelly" was liquid gold to everyone.

Dan was a devoted supporter of his children and grandchildren. He beamed with pride as he spoke about all of them. He knew how to make them laugh and sent the best videos and messages to make them smile. Dan's wisdom and tidbits of knowledge will be greatly missed. He seemed to know how to do just about everything.

Daniel is survived by his wife of 50 years, the former June Ann Buchman; daughter, Christine Rosenberger and husband, Mark, Jim Thorpe; son, Daniel M. Berlitz and wife, Melissa, Drums. He is also survived by grandchildren, Mackenzie and Carsen Rosenberger and Daniel and Derek Berlitz.

At his request, Daniel's funeral services will be held privately at the convenience of the immediate family. Dan asked that all his family members and friends pray to the Blessed Mother on his behalf.

Joseph A. Moran Funeral Home, 229 W. 12th St., Hazleton, is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent through www.moranfuneral

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