Family, Gratitude and Service: Honoring an Army Veteran 

Nearly 60 family members and friends gathered at Burton Healthcare to honor U.S. Army veteran Dale Berardinelli for his military service during the Vietnam era. Reserve Care organized the ceremony to recognize Dale’s service in the late 1960s and early 1970s and give his family an opportunity to celebrate him together.

The Berardinelli name is familiar to generations of Cleveland families. In 1949, brothers Joey and Manny Berardinelli opened Maxim’s Delicatessen on East 185th Street. The business quickly became a neighborhood favorite, known for its homemade Italian specialties and the relationships the family built with customers.

After 55 years in Cleveland, Maxim’s relocated to Mentor in 2004. Today, the family continues a tradition that has spanned three generations. That strong sense of family was evident as loved ones gathered to recognize Dale, not only for his military service, but for the important place he holds in their lives.

For Dale’s recognition ceremony, Reserve Care brought together staff and volunteers who share a commitment to honoring veterans. Veteran volunteer Jerry Chasko, music volunteer Nicky Bucur, Amy Mullin-O’Neill from Provider Relations and Team Eden Volunteer Services Manager Meg Shelling helped coordinate the celebration.

Through Reserve Care’s Special Care Funds, the team purchased a cake for the family to enjoy. Following the ceremony, Dale’s family invited the team to stay for a catered lunch, giving everyone more time to visit and celebrate. With nearly 60 loved ones in attendance, the ceremony gave Dale and his family an opportunity to recognize his military service together.

Military service can shape a person’s life long after they return home. Understanding that history is an important part of caring for veterans and their families. Through our Peaceful and Proud program, Reserve Care provides specialized hospice care that recognizes veterans’ experiences and individual needs. Our staff and volunteers also help families arrange recognition ceremonies, offering an opportunity to acknowledge their loved one’s service.

For Dale, that meant bringing family and friends together for a celebration centered on him. We are grateful to Dale for his service and to the Berardinelli family for allowing Reserve Care to share in this special occasion.