Camilla A. Berger

Birth: November 25, 1937 | Died: November 24, 2023

Obituary for Camilla A. Berger

Camilla “Cammy” Berger passed away peacefully on November 24, 2023 in Brea, California, just a few hours shy of her 86th birthday. Born on November 25, 1937 to Edward Jesse and Helen Marie Orndorff, Camilla Anne was the oldest of five children. She married August W. “Gus” Berger on October 5, 1957 and together they had four children: Lisa, Larry, David and Karen. A gifted pianist, she taught piano to neighborhood children while raising her young family and eventually decided to pursue a formal degree in music at California State College Fullerton. Cammy loved books and reading and decided to pursue a Master’s in Library Science, after which she settled into a career as a reference librarian for the Pomona Public Library. She also developed a passion for genealogy, both researching her own family as well as guiding many more people in their searches and lecturing for the local genealogical society. (The compilation of her work can be found online with the Orange County California Genealogical Society) Our family home was decorated in Pennsylvania Dutch style, reflecting her passion for family history and art.

In 1989, Cammy was abruptly widowed after 31 years of marriage. As she worked through this new life challenge she became very involved in her church, ministering to many over the years. She also enjoyed several trips that centered around family research or her faith. Cammy was a great cook and her culinary skills were well known to family, friends and co-workers who enjoyed being frequent recipients of her various specialties.

Her ultimate life challenge began with the onset of dementia symptoms twelve years ago. Despite the restrictions that came with memory care, Cammy’s beautiful spirit continued to shine through as she took on the role of “ambassador” to newer arrivals and befriended those who seemed lost. She played the piano often for everyone in the earlier days, until a fall and a long rehabilitation, followed by a facility move and Covid restrictions, forever reduced her capacity to play. Cammy bravely and sweetly endured the final years of limited mobility and memory, and was known for her lovely smile.

Camilla was predeceased by her husband, Gus, on January 25, 1989, her parents Helen and Edward Orndorff, and brothers Carl Orndorff and Charles Orndorff. She is survived by her children Lisa (Tom), Larry (Laurie), David (Cindy) and Karen (Rod); 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; her brother Christopher Orndorff in Montana, brother Joseph Orndorff in Oregon, and a niece, Sarah Orndorff.

Funeral rites will take place on Saturday December 9, 2023 at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Yorba Linda, with the Rosary at 11:00 am, viewing at 11:30 am, and funeral Mass at 12:00 noon. A Celebration of Life reception will be held nearby afterwards. Burial will take place at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Orange on December 11, at 11:30 am.