James Berz
Longtime Denver resident James “Jim” Berz passed away on December 31, 2025, at the age of 61. A service was held on January 5 at Fairmount Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary handled the arrangements.
Born in Chicago, Ill., on April 15, 1964, Mr. Berz attended CU Boulder. He was a respected and talented professional auctioneer for charitable organizations throughout the US.
“He was passionate about his work and raising money for so many good causes,” his family said. “He approached his work with a sense of humor, which is what made him so unique and successful.”
James and Jaqueline Berz were married at the Doral Country Club in Florida. Mrs. Berz passed away in September, 2021.
“He was a loving father, brother, son, uncle and loyal friend,” his family said. “Everyone he met loved him instantly. He was kind, caring and sensitive.”
Survivors are children Jack Berz and Maecy Berz; parents Robert (Diana) Berz; sister Nancy (Gary) Colman; brothers-in-law Pierre (Lorraine) Aragon and Fabio (Joe) Piperis.
Contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or the Carly Colman Kindness Fund at JFS, Broward County, Fla.
Gail Sargent
Gail Badner Sargent passed away on February 17, 2026. She was 85. A service was held on February 22 at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Born in Fairmont, W. Va., on January 10, 1941, Ms. Sargent grew up in Charlston, W. Va. She attended Lasell Junior College and Morris Harvey College (now the University of Charleston), earning a BA in education.
Ms. Sargent taught English as a second language, special education, reading and driver’s ed. “Her students appreciated her empathetic listening skills and life advice,” her family said.
Mrs. Sargent raised her family in Fairfax, Va., where she lived for many years. She previously lived in Freeport, NY, and Las Cruces, NM. She was an avid cyclist, often leading and participating in rides with her biking club, The Potomac Peddlers.
Survivors are children Ellen Sargent Schneeweis and Steven Jay Sargent; and grandchildren Robert (Madison), Andrew (Danielle), Daniel, Joseph, Tristen and Brendan Sargent.
Contributions may be made to the rabbi’s discretionary fund at the HEA.
© IJN 2026
