Jan 23, 1922 - Aug 21, 2017
In Celebration of a Great Life
Walter Kenneth Bergmann
January 23, 1922-August 21, 2017
Walter immigrated to Canada with his family when he was 3 years old. Growing up in Dundurn, Saskatchewan, Walter was an avid outdoorsman, running trap lines, fishing, riding motorcycles and playing outdoor hockey. This love of the outdoors carried on throughout his life. Over the years, camping, hunting, fishing (both commercially and as a charter boat operator) were the norm. Sea Bunny Charters was well known for always bringing back a fish. He owned a motorcycle, a tent and a boat from the day he moved to BC to the day he died.
He joined the army as an underage recruit at 17, in the midst of World War 2, serving overseas in Holland, France, Italy, Spain and Northern Africa with the Saskatoon Light Infantry. Upon honorable discharge, he moved out to BC and enrolled in UBC obtaining a degree in Education. He was principal and taught in Pemberton, North Vancouver, and throughout Dist. 69. His specialties were mathematics and science.
Walt married the love of his life Bernice (Bunny), in 1950 and they had three loving children. Family was important to Walter and he was thrilled to see his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in the days before his death. Bunny passed away just shy of their 60th anniversary. She was his steadfast companion in the passenger seat, whether in their boat, motorhome or van. Their semi annual treks to the Interior, Northern BC, the Prairies and their boating expeditions are legendary. They are together once again.
Walter's philosophy was always "Live for today, as you don't know what tomorrow may bring" and this he did, every day. When asked how are you doing - his standard reply was "everyone I can". He lived life on his own terms and faced death with the same courage. He astounded Doctors with his tenacity and will to live.
Walter is predeceased by his parents Peter and Anastasia Bergmann, brother Peter, wife Bernice (nee Craven) and son Donald. Left to celebrate his life and miss him terribly are his daughters Susan Bergmann and Judy LeSage (Paul), daughter-in-law Wanda Bergmann, seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren and many friends, past students and relatives.
We will miss your love, your advice, your war stories and your support. You were and will always be, our hero.
As requested, there will be no service.
A glass of Grand Marnier has been tipped in your honor.