John "Chip" Foster Berlet

SALEM - John Foster Berlet, "Chip", passed away peacefully in his home January 30th, 2026. Born November 22, 1949 in Hackensack, New Jersey, Chip lived in Denver, Washington DC, Chicago and Burlington, MA, before retiring to Salem, Massachusetts five years ago.

Chip is survived by his wife, Karen Moyer and son, Robert Berlet, and was a beloved uncle to Tristan Berlet, and Abby and Emily Whitbeck. He was predeceased by his brother, George, mother, Vera (Hanson) Berlet and father, George Berlet Jr.

Chip helped found Political Research Associates and worked there for 30 years investigating and analyzing the rise of the far right in the United States. He worked with many organizations and individuals to defend free speech and protect the rights of others.

He cared deeply for his family, and was passionate about celebrating Halloween, cooking for friends and family, fly fishing, and gardening.

Chip’s integrity, good humor and kindness will be sorely missed.

ARRANGEMENTS: A date for a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later time. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Square, (At Salem Common) SALEM. Donations in Chip's memory may be made to the National Lawyers Guild Foundation, PO Box 1266 Peter Stuyvesant Station, New York, NY 10009 - www.odonnellfuneralservice.com