Long-time Monte Vista resident, James Steven Berg, 70, passed away on Dec. 21, 2022. He was born on Oct. 27, 1952, in San Jose, Calif., to Melvin and Josephine (Cavataio) Berg. He married Shirley Bierma on Nov. 30, 1985, in San Jose, Calif.

James had a heart for helping others and spent many years working for the Department of Social Services, first as a case manager and then as Director.

He loved his family, spending time outdoors, gardening, supporting the 49ers and especially loving and serving his Lord and Savior.

Having experienced a radical transformation in his own life, James was often found sharing the good news with others he met, encouraging them to live their life fully devoted to God. James and Shirley were active members of Valley Church of the Nazarene.

James is survived by his wife, Shirley Berg, of Monte Vista; his children, Emily McBlair of Wellington, Colo., Bethany Berg of Fort Collins, Colo., and Joshua Berg of Colorado Springs, Colo.; one grandchild, as well as his brother Timothy Berg of Reno, Nev.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation was selected and a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, at the Valley Church of the Nazarene in Monte Vista. Donations are suggested to abrahamicalliance.org/aai/ and may be made in care of the funeral home.

To express condolences, please visit www.rogersfunerals.com. Rogers Family Mortuary in Alamosa is in care of the arrangements.