Ernest Bergman (1932 - 2022)

Ernie was predeceased by the love of his life, Katie (nee Konrad) on February 4, 2021, after being married for 65 years.

Ernie grew up in the Fraser Valley in a loving family of 11 children to parents Paul & Anna. Sports, raspberry farming, and hiking were integral parts of his young life. Dad loved to share stories of his 10 siblings and their singing and growing up days.

Ernie met Katie at MEI high school and married in 1955. Ernie and Katie had an adventurous life together. They lived in many places in the world: Mississippi, Kenya, Jamaica, and Northern BC. They spent time in teaching roles, travelling, and finding ways to serve and advocate for others. They were involved in the extended church family and Gideons throughout their lives. Friendships were very important, as well as learning about others and being active in the local community wherever they lived.

Ernie & Katie raised their family of five children in many different communities in Northern BC. Their family times included picnicking, boating, camping, berry picking, gardening, playing games, building a log home, and always having room for more people at the dinner table. Trips to visit extended family and friends were key and this time included singing, campfires, and lots of games. They retired to Parksville, formed new friendships, continued to spend time, by phone or in person, with family and friends around the world.

Ernie & Katie are lovingly remembered and missed by their children, Judy, Sharon, Daryl, Connie, and Kathy. They will be missed by their families, 12 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and extended family and many friends.

We are grateful and appreciate the outstanding care and compassion shown to our parents by the staff at Arrowsmith Lodge in Parksville. Donations can be made in our parent’s honour to Arrowsmith Lodge (arrowsmithlodge.ca) in Parksville, MCC (donate.mcccanada.ca), or the Gideons(shareworldglobal.com).

We thank each of you for being part of our parent’s lives and enriching our family history.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday March 12 from 12:15PM to 1:15PM in the Nanoose Evangelical Free Church at 2462 Nanoose Rd.

"When I’m Gone"

When I come to the end of my journey

And I travel my last weary mile,

Just forget if you can that I ever frowned

And remember only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken:

Remember some good I have done,

Forget that I ever had a heartache

And remember I’ve had loads of fun.

Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered

And sometimes fell by the way.

Remember I have fought some hard battles

And won, ere the close of the day,

Then forget to grieve for my going,

I would not have you sad for a day,

But in summer just gather some flowers (Raspberries and Blackberries)

And remember the place where I lay

And come in the evening

When the sun paints the sky in the west,

Stand for a few moments beside me

And remember only my best.