2019 Assembly Joint Resolution 96
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: honoring the life and public service of Daniel M. Berkos.
Whereas, Daniel M. “Danny” Berkos was born on September 12, 1952, in Cicero, Illinois, the son of Christy and Rita Berkos; and
Whereas, Danny was dedicated to his community and began his practice of law after being admitted to the Wisconsin Bar in 1979, starting his career in private practice alongside his law partner and future Governor Tommy G. Thompson; and
Whereas, Danny was elected and served as Juneau County District Attorney from 1981-1986. He also served as the County Corporation Counsel, as well as serving on the boards of several organizations promoting both Mauston and Juneau County economic development; and
Whereas, Danny married Julie B. Lynch on December 1, 1984. He was a loving and devoted husband to Julie, and father to his daughter, Shane, and his son, Eric, who followed in his father's footsteps, serving as an Assistant State Public Defender, private practice attorney, and Assistant District Attorney; and
Whereas, after returning to private practice in 1987, Danny was appointed to the Wisconsin State Public Defender Board by Governor Thompson and became chair of the board in 1988, serving in that role for over 30 years. He was a dedicated and leading voice for Wisconsin's indigent defense system through the tenure of five gubernatorial administrations and three state public defenders; and
Whereas, Danny's dedication to indigent defense extended beyond his service as a member of the Public Defender Board to include direct client representation, with private pay clients as well as an ongoing commitment to accepting state public defender appointments; and
Whereas, Danny will always be remembered as being larger than life, with a love not only of his family and friends, but for his work, community, outdoor activities, and the Chicago Bears; and
Whereas, Danny passed away on August 26, 2019, at the age of 66, surrounded by his family, after a year-long battle with cancer; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the
assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin State Legislature join in honoring the life and public service of Daniel M. Berkos, a dedicated public servant, community leader, and attorney who has left a lasting mark on his family, friends, colleagues, and the City of Mauston, County of Juneau, and State of Wisconsin; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide copies of this joint resolution to Danny's wife, Julie Berkos, and his family.
