Bruce Berkowitz

Bruce Berkowitz, born on July 30, 1941, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and resident of Holland, PA for the past 53 years, passed away on January 7th, 2026 at the age of 84. A lifelong Philadelphian at heart, Bruce was deeply proud of his roots, his family, and the life he built through hard work, loyalty, and genuine connection with others.

Bruce was the beloved son of David Berkowitz and Anne Abrahms. He was the devoted husband of the late Susan Cler Berkowitz, the love of his life, whom he married in 1964. Their marriage was a true whirlwind love story that spanned 54 years and remained the center of Bruce’s world. Susan was his partner, his anchor, and his greatest joy. He was a proud and loving father to Kimberly Hulbert (husband Jonathan) and Debra Margolis (husband David). Bruce’s greatest pride was his family, and nothing brought him more happiness than time spent with his daughters and grandchildren. He was a devoted grandfather to Riley Hulbert, Katie Hulbert, Emma Hulbert, Addy Grace Hulbert, Sophia Margolis, and Isabella Margolis, and a joyful great-grandfather to Jace and Kenzie Hutchinson. Whether watching football, going out to eat, or simply relaxing at home, he found joy in the everyday moments. He was an incredibly proud father and grandfather and never missed a chance to brag about his family.

Bruce was a cherished brother to Karol Seidenberg (husband Gary), Robert Berkowitz (late wife Arlene), and Harvey Berkowitz (wife Susan Pearl), and the beloved late brother of Harriet Ginsburg (late husband Larry). He was adored by his 7 nieces and nephews and their children.

A graduate of West Philadelphia High School, Bruce loved his time as a member of the football team and carried that team spirit with him throughout his life. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Air Force. He was honorably discharged after the passing of his father so that he could return home to support his mother —an early reflection of the responsibility and devotion that defined him.

Bruce spent his career in retail; a field perfectly suited to his personality and love of people. He began in the building materials business in the 1960s with Panelrama, working alongside his close friend Gary Erlbaum. Together, they grew the business to 35 stores. Later, Bruce found his true passion in retail apparel, running Northeast Army Navy on Grant Avenue in Philadelphia for decades. He loved the work, the customers, and being part of the neighborhood—where many came to know him not just as a business owner, but as a friend.

After retirement, Bruce never slowed down. He channeled his love of sales and people into buying at estate sales and auctions and reselling to niche markets. He loved the thrill of the hunt, the art of the deal, and uncovering hidden treasures—skills he honed over a lifetime.

A lifelong and devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan, Bruce watched every game religiously right up until the end. Go Birds!

Bruce will be remembered for his warmth, his work ethic, his loyalty, and the deep love he had for his family. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.

A memorial celebration of life for friends and family will be held at a later date.