Alan Berman, lived life to the fullest

Alan Berman, 76, cherished husband, beloved friend, and lover of life, passed away Friday, Oct.  25, 2024, in Lewes. He was born June 2, 1948, in Baltimore, Md., son of the late Morris and Beatrice Berman. Alan is survived by his husband, Charles Marino; their two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Charlotte Louise and LilyRose; as well as many extended family and friends who will miss him always.

Alan met Charles, the love of his life, in 1981 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and soon thereafter relocated to Westchester, N.Y., where they built a life together. They became proud and loving dads to nine dogs, multiple puppies, and even several show dogs!

Alan and Charles were married in 2013, right after gay marriage was legalized in the state of Delaware, a long-awaited milestone for them. At the time of Alan’s passing, they had shared almost 44 beautiful years together.

Alan lived life to its fullest and gave his heart and soul to all that he did. His 58-year career as a hairstylist began upon his graduation from high school in Baltimore, Md., and continued in Hollywood, Fla., in a top salon. When Alan and Charles moved to Westchester, N.Y., they opened Hair Studio One, which they ran together for many years. In addition to winning many styling competitions, Alan loved hosting events, including fashion shows at the salon for local charities. Overlooking not even the smallest detail, his parties were unparalleled and the talk of the town.

Upon retiring, Alan and Charles moved to Lewes in 2012, where they knew they had found their forever home. Not one to be able to sit still for long, Alan abandoned retirement and became a stylist at Bad Hair Day in Rehoboth Beach, where he continued to pursue his passion and befriended all who sat in his chair.

Alan lived every moment with an unparalleled zest for life. He was a talented chef, loved to plan gatherings with friends and family, and his Christmas decorations were a sight to behold. Whether he was cooking or styling hair, his attention to detail was impeccable, and all that he did showcased his unique flair and desire to make things perfect for his family and friends.

Among so many other things, he will be remembered for his sense of humor, strength, courage, and tenacity, the traits that will continue to inspire his loved ones. “Climb Every Mountain” from “The Sound of Music” is the song that his husband considers the perfect theme song for him. Alan truly climbed every mountain and gave all the love he had, every day of his life.

A celebration will be planned for a future date to honor Alan’s vivacious life.

In his memory, the family welcomes donations to CAMP Rehoboth Community Center, give.camprehoboth.org/give, honoring Alan’s commitment to the gay rights movement that advocates equal rights for the LGBTQ community and supports those in the community who are in need.  

Visit Alan’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.