January 25, 2022 – The Madera County Sheriff’s Office would like to honor the life and legacy of Madera County’s 11th Sheriff, Ovonual Berkley, who passed away on January 22, 2022, at the age of 87.
He is survived by his two children Randy Berkley and Shella Baxter, and was preceded in death by his wife Maxine.
Sheriff Berkley started his career with the Madera County Sheriff’s Office as a reserve deputy before being hired on full-time in 1964. During his career, he served as the department’s first Captain, the resident deputy at Bass Lake, and on the Dive team. He also was a graduate of the FBI National Academy. Sheriff Berkley served the citizens of Madera County as their elected Sheriff from 1980-1986.
In his retirement, Sheriff Berkley worked for the California Department of Justice in CAMP (Campaign Against Marijuana Planting) Unit for more than 20 years.
Current Sheriff Tyson Pogue reflects, “Sheriff Berkley touched the lives of many people throughout his life and career, and we are so grateful to be a part of this wonderful man’s legacy. We send our sincere condolences to his family and friends during this time.”
Source: Madera County Sheriff's Office
