May 15th, 1931 – October 29th, 2020
Everyone loved our dad. He was smart, hardworking, good natured, and helpful with a quiet sense of humour. An all around good guy, he was a wonderful role model and our protector. He was the last of that generation in our family and will be missed by us all.
Dad was born in Winnipeg on May 15th, 1931 to Millie (Waletzky) and William Bergman. In his early years he suffered from Diphtheria, Scarlet Fever and Rheumatic fever. He was bedridden for a year and almost died. During WW2, the family moved to Dartmouth where his parents worked for the war effort. Dad would regale us with stories about his time there and that’s when he developed his interest in the service. After the war was over, the family returned to Wpg and dad went to St. John’s High School.
In 1951 dad joined the RCN where he proudly served for 5 years, achieving the rank of Leading Seaman. Dad loved his time in the navy and while on leave back home met our beautiful mother Ada. He always said it was love at first sight. They were wed June 18th, 1955 and were married for 62 years until mom’s passing. Dad joined the CNR police force in 1956. He enjoyed his time on the force and made many friends. He was proud to serve as protector of Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip, John Diefenbaker, Lester Pearson and Pierre Trudeau upon their visits to our city. Dad retired as a lieutenant in 1989.
He was a man of many interests; an avid stamp and coin collector, model train builder, voracious reader, history buff, WW2 expert, and a huge fan of the Jets, Bombers, and Jays. Dad’s greatest passion was the beautiful cabin he designed and built at Little Gordon Lake for us all to enjoy. Nothing made him happier than to spend time at the cottage; building, puttering and enjoying time there with family. He was truly a master craftsman building the cottage without the use of power tools. That is his remarkable legacy to us.
Dad was a wonderful Poppa/grandpa to William and Daniel who he doted on and loved to spend time with. He always made us feel loved and we knew we could count on him for advice and support. He was our hero and we will love and miss him forever.
On Oct. 29th dad passed away at Seven Oaks Hospital. He was predeceased by his parents, brother Donald, and our dear mom Ada. He is survived by his daughters Wendy and Alison, son-in-law Jerry Rubin, grandsons William Kowalski and Daniel Sharples, Daniel’s girlfriend Destiny Wentz, Daniel’s father Dan, William’s father Frank, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Dad always said he had a great life, filled with interesting adventures. Well done dad!
Thank you to the staff on the 5th floor Unit 3 for your compassionate care.
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