Zachary Ryan Berger

Zachary Ryan Berger, 23, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, at Wellspan Ephrata Community Hospital. Born in Lancaster, he was the beloved son of Shawn Berger and Jennifer (Eshleman) Kauffman.

Zach was a cherished member of West Willow UMC, where he frequently read scripture, supported the AV team and earned the loving title of “ATM” – Assistant to Ministries. He was an active member of the Lampeter-Strasburg YMCA, Challenger Baseball League, UDS Challenger Flag Football, and Kathy’s Circle of Friends, where he formed many meaningful relationships. Zach loved playing chess and poker and visiting casinos, especially Atlantic City with his Moo Moo and Pap. He also enjoyed laser tag, Star Wars, WWE, video games, pickleball, fishing and boxing. Some of Zach’s favorite jobs included working at Go-N-Bananas, Cartoon Network Hotel and the Strasburg Railroad, where he took great pride in his work and enjoyed connecting with guests and coworkers.

Zach is survived by his loving parents: Jennifer Kauffman, wife of Ray, and Shawn Berger; brothers: Dylan and Drew Berger and Trishaun Kauffman; maternal grandparents: Larry and Lois Eshleman; paternal grandparents: Bruce and Terry Berger; uncles: Jason Eshleman, significant other of Diana Fischer, and Justin Berger; cousins: Skylar, Carly and Jordan Eshleman, Annie and Vincent Fischer, and Ariel Berger; and spiritual “big brothers”: Bob Garvey, Dave Rose and Darryl Audia Sr.

Zach lived a life that was defined not by his autism or the daily challenges he faced, but by the remarkable courage and resilience with which he faced them. His life was a testament to perseverance, and he inspired countless family members, friends, coworkers, and community members through his strength. He was deeply loved by so many, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched.

A Celebration of Zach’s Life will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at West Willow UMC, 118 West Willow Road, Willow Street, PA 17584.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Zach’s memory may be made to: West Willow UMC or UDS Challenger Flag Football.