Donald D. Berryman

McFarland- Donald D. Berryman, age 97, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at his daughter’s home in McFarland, surrounded by his family. He was born in Dodgeville on October 26, 1925, the son of Wilbur and Kathryn Berryman.

Don graduated from Dodgeville High School in 1943. In 1949 he enrolled in the Elgin Watchmakers College and graduated in 1953. While in Elgin Don met the love of his life Marilyn Holtz. On July 3, 1953 they were united in marriage. Don enlisted in the US Army and served his country honorably. The family settled in Dodgeville and opened Berryman’s Jewelers. They moved to Madison in 1964 where Don worked for Badger Ordinance. He continued his passion of watchmaking and was known as the “Clock Doctor” working for several area jewelers including EW Parker, Dunkins, Schwartz, Terry Jewelers and Jewelers Workshop.

Don was a longtime member of the Model A Club and Model T Club and very proud of his 1930 Ford Coupe. Affectionately known as the “Musical Saw Man” he entertained his entire life by playing the musical saw for so many. In the mid 1970’s Don and Marilyn made their home in McFarland where they fostered 41 newborns and opened their home to childcare. Don volunteered for the American Red Cross where he was a regular donor. He was a member of the McFarland Lutheran Church and McFarland American Legion Post 534. He was also an avid Wisconsin sports fan, never missing a Badger, Packer or Brewer game. Often times watching but then also listening to the radio. Don also had a lifetime love for Onion pie! 

Don is survived by his children, Steve (Jill), Cindy (Carl) Orloff, Chuck (Terry), Scott (Maria), Tammy (fiancé, Brandon Clark) McKeown, and Heather Berryman; 26 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; and one great great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and sister, Lavon Paulson.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until 12 noon on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Cress Funeral Home, 5801 US Highway 51, McFarland. Committal service, with Military Honors, will follow at 1:00 PM at Roselawn Mausoleum Chapel, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona.

Memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare Inc. or Project Home WI. 

A special thank you to Meriter Hospital 8 Tower and Agrace Hospice Care.

Please share your memories of Don by posting in his Guestbook.

Cress Funeral Services

5801 US Highway 51, PO Box 105, McFarland

(608) 838-0655