On June 5, 2022, Lili Berkley was welcomed as a new member into the St. Mark Congregation. Lili graciously offered to share some information so we could get to know a little more about her.
“I was born in Nebraska. I still have aunts and cousins that live in the Lincoln area, and we remain close.
I grew up in LaGrange, Illinois. I have an older brother and sister and we spent many days in the bleacher seats at Wrigley Field. My love for the Chicago Cubs has never wavered. My dad passed away 6 years ago but my mom still lives in the house where they retired. She is 89 years old and is my hero. She still plays the trumpet in the Community Band, sings in 2 choirs and plays handbells at her church. She is in good health and lives in Bella Vista, Arkansas where I visit often.
My very first church was Highlands Presbyterian Church in LaGrange, Illinois. When I moved to Washington state, I was confirmed Lutheran at St. Lukes Lutheran Church in Federal Way and was heavily involved in all their choirs and many activities. My husband’s job brought me out to Olympia and thankfully found St. Mark as my new church home.
Once I finished college at Western Washington University, I started working for Dzingle’s Landscaping, LLC as their Business Manager and I am still employed there.
I am married to my wonderful husband, Brian Berkley, which you will see occasionally at church. I have two amazing sons, Zack (32) and Sam (29), and my sweet daughter-in-law, Robbyn. Brian has two children who I adore, daughter Taylor (22) and son Drew (19). Our shared “children” are our three dachshunds, Tillie, Greta and Paisley.
When I am not working from home, you can usually find me on the golf course. Indian Summer Golf Course has been my home away from home for over 10 years. I also love to read, sing, walk our dogs, and I play the violin and guitar when I have time.
When I first walked into St. Mark for the first time, I felt very welcomed. Ellen Adams and her son, Mark, sat next to me and were so friendly. Then Earla Ferry made a point to introduce herself when passing the peace. She invited me to coffee hour and encouraged me to join the choir. And now I am a part of the Bible study she attends. When I met Pastors Beth and Eric, they made me feel like I never wanted to leave. My plan was to visit other churches in the area, but I felt called to stay at St. Mark.
Thank you for making me feel so welcome and please introduce yourselves so I can meet more of this wonderful congregation.”