Former N.O. cable broadcaster Alan Berlin dies in San Diego

ALAN BERLIN, an early cable TV broadcaster, who established America’s Shopping Channel as part of the Cox Cable channel offerings – a forerunner of national channels such as QVC – died on July 18 after a lengthy battle with cancer in San Diego, CA., the home he had called home for much of his life.

ALAN BERLIN

Berlin worked as a manager in the early days of cable TV in New Orleans for the shopping channel, but left the city after several years, eventually landing in the San Diego area, where he raised his family in the suburb of La Jolla.

In later years, Berlin created a document imaging service.

Known for his kindness and his with, Berlin and his wife, Sherry, a native of New Orleans, loved hosting friends and family for holidays and dinner parties including elaborate Mardi Gras parties where he served his famous gumbo. Food and family dinners were an important cohesive force in his life.

Originally from the east coast, he graduated from Hobart College and got his MBA at Tulane in New Orleans, which is where he met his
future wife.

Following his diagnosis of cancer a decade ago, he chose to retire. However, even in retirement he was not stationary, while he consulted doctors and used many modern medicine treatments to lengthen his life. Berlin volunteered at the San Diego Natural History Museum as well as at his synagogue, Congregation Ohr Shalom. He was also a member of Toastmasters.

He is survived by his wife Sherry Grossman Berlin, his children Rebekah and Benjamin Berlin, his parents Roy and Fran Berlin, his brother Richard Berlin and three grandsons.

A graveside service was held on July 22 at the Home of Peace Cemetery. Rabbi Scott Meltzer officiated. Funeral arrangments were by Am Israel Mortuary of San Diego.

Memorial donations are suggestion to the American Cancer Society, the San Diego Natural History Museum and Congregation Ohr Shalom.

(CCJN editor Alan Smason worked briefly for the Berlin family as a host on America’s Shopping Channel on Saturday nights.)