Wilma Jean (Jean) Berlekamp was born on April 26th, 1930 in Mexico, Missouri to Herman D. and Jewell W. Danklef (nee Wright). Jean passed away Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Pine View Manor in Stanberry, Missouri at the age of 95.
She graduated from Mexico high school in 1948 and went on to get her bachelor’s degree from CMSU (now UCM) in Warrensburg, MO in 1952. She then moved to Independence, MO where she went to work for the Gas Service company. It was then that she met the love of her life, Victor Norman (Vic) Berlekamp, and they were married on Sept. 11th, 1954 at First united Methodist Church in Independence. In 1958 they built their home on 41st street where they would reside and raise their family for over 30 years. In 1961 they welcomed a son Randy, followed by a daughter Becky in 1966. Jean was very active in school and church functions as she raised her children. As the children grew older, Jean started substitute teaching in the Independence school district and eventually took a full-time teaching position where she taught for 10 years.
Vic’s job took him to Albany, MO in 1988, and in 1989 they bought a home there where they could enjoy the company of the many new friends that had welcomed them to Albany, and the small-town atmosphere that they enjoyed so much. During this time, they took many vacations and day trips to neighboring towns in search of collectibles. When home, they started a craft business (Home town creations) where Jean would sew dolls together and Vic would make doll furniture to go with them.
Jean was a proud member of the Albany United Methodist church, Athena, and P.E.O. Chapter AN. She also served on various boards, committees, and coffee groups in her retirement and enjoyed being part of the Albany community and the friendship circles she loved so much.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Vic, brothers Herman Danklef jr. and Jack Danklef, her daughter Becky Kraner, and nephew David Danklef.
She is survived by her son Randy Berlekamp, his wife Wanda Stern, grandson Matt Stern and wife Cecilia, four great grandchildren Hunter, Alexis, Xander, and Kyland.
Graveside Service and Burial: 2:00 PM Friday, November 7 at the Grandview Cemetery, Albany. The family will receive friends 12:00 – 2:00 PM Friday at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. Friends may call anytime after 9:00 AM Friday morning.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions: P.E.O. Chapter AN, Albany United Methodist Church or Albany Main Street in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402.
