Cornelius Bergen

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CORNELIUS BERGEN
January 2, 1920 - July 10, 2016

Cornelius Bergen, aged 96 of Steinbach, MB, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 10, 2016 at Bethesda Place Personal Care Home, Steinbach, MB.

He was predeceased by Mary, his wife of 50 years. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Larry (Viera) of Winnipeg, Menno (Tamara) of Kleefeld, Gordon of Winnipeg, Anna (Bert) Toews of Steinbach, Eldon (Cindy) of Winnipeg; along with his 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He will also be lovingly remembered by his siblings: Helen Giesbrecht, Wilhelm Bergen, Gertrude Bergen and Elvin (Mary) Bergen.

He was predeceased by his parents, seven sisters and three brothers.

Cornelius was born January 2, 1920 to Cornelius and Katharina Bergen. He was the seventh of 15 children and spent his early years in St. Joseph, and later moving a few times until his family settled in a more permanent home in the area of Pansy. Once he met his love of his life, Mary Dueck, they moved to Woodlands and started a family, and then moved to Grunthal, MB, where he worked as a mechanic. The young family later moved to a 60 acre hobby farm situated between Steinbach and Grunthal.

Dad was known for his love of mechanics and his ability to fix anything. He had a curious mind for how things worked and how they could work better. His friends and neighbours would often seek his advice on how to fix their farm equipment or automobiles. Although his formal education was limited, his curious mind was always working. He could often be found reading popular technical periodicals to keep up with current technologies. Dad also had a keen interest in beekeeping. Dad was able to pursue many of these interests on the small hobby farm where he and mom raised their family.

Dad also served four years in WWII stationed in England as a mechanic. As with many things in life, dad didn’t often speak of his time served in the war unless asked about it, but his time spent in the army played a large part in making him the man that he was.

The family would like to express our gratitude to the staff at Cedarwood and Bethesda Place for the excellent care they gave to Dad.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, July 15, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB, with the interment at Grunthal Cemetery, Grunthal, MB. Viewing will take place prior to the service.

Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL
1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

As published in The Carillon on Jul 12, 2016