- September 16, 2024
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Nicholas J. Bereda, Jr. was born on November 18, 1940 in Norristown, Pennsylvania to Katherine Tassoni Bereda and Nicholas J. Bereda, Sr. and joined our Lord and Savior on July 31, 2024.
At age 9, Nick needed emergency heart surgery, and a world-renowned heart surgeon was flown in from Germany to save his life. After the surgery, they said that he might live to the age of 25.
Nick first worked for the Pennsylvania Park Police in Valley Forge Park, and then took a job with the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, working his way up to the Director of Community Relations and Director of Crime Prevention.
Nick was instrumental in creating McGruffthe Crimefighting dog through the Pennsylvania Governor’s Justice Commission. For the youth Nick initiated the mini-bike rodeo with Devon Honda’s help in Tredyffrin Township for several summers in the 70s. One of his greatest gifts was helping those in need through the Valley Forge REACT, and mentoring thousands of children and teens.
In 1976, President Gerald Ford asked Nick to support a Fuel Economy Run by organizing a cross-country motorcycle run across America.
Nick gathered lawyers, doctors, and judges with their motorcycles and a motor home that rode through Texas into California. Honda gave Nick an automatic motorcycle to thank him for his advocacy. He was also part of the Blue Knights motorcycle club in Pennsylvania.
Nick retired to Palm Coast, Florida in 1997. When Nick left to retire, the words of many were that the “Godfather” is leaving town!! He was soon after hired by FEMA to oversee the cleanup and community outreach related to recovery from the 1998 fires in the region.
Nick’s main interest in Florida was his pontoon boat, with a boat in lift behind the house. He loved his membership with the Flagler Beach Yacht Club and numerous excursions and events. Nick was a gregarious people person who was loved by many. He was always ready to share stories and advice with those around him.
Nick is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan Bereda, his sons Todd and Mark Bereda, his stepson Ken Bole, stepdaughter Barbara Bole, and 7 grandchildren.
