Community Mourns Beloved Great Barrington Police Officer

A police badge and flowers at a memorial site for a police officer.

News Summary

Great Barrington is in mourning after the passing of Daniel Robert Bersaw, a dedicated police officer who served the community for 25 years. Known for his commitment and warm spirit, Bersaw passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for September 13, 2025. His family remembers him fondly and encourages contributions to the Saint Peter’s Building Fund in his memory.

Great Barrington – The community is mourning the loss of Daniel Robert Bersaw, a beloved longtime police officer in Great Barrington, who passed away on September 7, 2025, at the age of 69. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.

Bersaw was born on November 14, 1955, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to the late Robert J. and Barbara (Fallon) Bersaw. He graduated from Monument Mountain Regional High School in 1974 and initially worked with his father in a lawn-care business before moving on to serve as a manager at Cutter Ceramics in Waltham, Massachusetts.

For 25 years, Bersaw dedicated himself to the Great Barrington Police Department, where he was known for his commitment to the community until his retirement in 2016. Outside of his career, he enjoyed recreational activities such as fishing, playing cards, and having campfires. Music was a significant part of his life, reflecting his varied taste across genres. An avid fan of the New York Yankees, he often shared a playful rivalry with his sister-in-law, who supported the Boston Red Sox. His Catholic faith was integral to his life.

Bersaw leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Carol (Kennedy) Bersaw, and his family, which includes two sons, Brendan and Christopher Bersaw, as well as two daughters, Teresa Reynolds (husband Jessi) and Cecilia Somes (husband Bruce). He is also survived by his brother, Douglas Bersaw (wife Kathy), and his four sisters: Dr. Eileen O’Leary (husband Michael), Carolyn Bersaw, Marian Hassett (husband Tim), and Patricia Noonan (husband Patrick). His legacy continues through his four grandchildren: Owen, Charlotte, Eleanor, and Colin. He was predeceased by his first wife, Mary (Conway) Bersaw.

The family expressed their deep gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Dr. Cooney and the staff at Fairview Hospital, highlighting the support they received during this difficult time.

A Funeral Mass for Daniel Robert Bersaw will take place on Saturday, September 13, at 10 a.m. at Saint Peter’s Church in Great Barrington, officiated by Reverend William P. Murphy. Following the Mass, burial will be conducted at Saint Peter’s Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, September 12, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Birches-Roy Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Bersaw’s memory may make contributions to the Saint Peter’s Building Fund through the funeral home. Condolences can also be shared via the funeral home’s website.

Bersaw’s passing marks the end of a meaningful chapter for both his family and the community that he served for decades. His commitment to public service and his warm spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

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STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.

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