James J. Bergman

James “Jim” Bergman, age 91, passed into eternal life on June 20, 2024. He was born on December 9, 1932, in Little Chute, WI. to the late Henry P. and Matilda (Bongers) Bergman. Jim graduated from Annunciation Grade School and Catholic Central High School.

In 1955 he married Nancy Kosnar, together they placed priority on faith and family. They were very active in their church and held many leadership roles, as long-time members of St. Mary of the Angels Church in Green Bay and the later years at St Francis Xavier Church in De Pere. They enjoyed the outdoors, and many weekends camping and fishing together with their 5 children. In their later years Jim and Nancy enjoyed going to flea markets, going out for breakfast, Friday night fish fry and making booyah in his 55-gallon barrel with the wood fire. And of course, there were many family gatherings.

Jim proudly served his county during the Korean War stationed in Trieste Italy as sergeant of the guard for the commanding officer’s headquarters. He had a strong allegiance to our country and took every opportunity to stand proud for the USA. He took part annually in the Memorial Day parade and veteran ceremonies. Jim was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 2113 in De Pere WI and served as honor guard for fellow veterans at their funerals.

He was employed at Wisconsin Public Service as a meter electrician for 39 years. Jim had several part-time jobs over the years, whether that was; pumping gas, selling furniture, or managing St Mary’s Roller Rink, his work ethic was strong, always going above and beyond, with a kind, loving smile and great personality. He enjoyed fixing and sometimes inventing things, if that is what was needed to make them work. He loved to work; gardening, chopping wood, building or repairing, you would often hear him say, “this is fun!”.

Over the last few years Jim continued to keep up with family gatherings and day trips camping. He found joy in baking and cooking, as he was well known at Renaissance Assisted Living for making the “best” chocolate chip cookies, homemade bread, and pies. He always enjoyed gardening and assumed that position in watering and keeping up the courtyard flowers. Jim was a regular attender of the exercise classes, he found himself “dancing into the glory years” at the Friday entertainment. He enjoyed a good game of Schafkopf with other residents, from time to time.

He is survived by his children; Kathy (Dave) Payette, Bob Bergman, Dave (Sue) Bergman, Ken (Robin) Bergman, grandchildren; Drew (Shannon) Bergman, Paige (Keaton) Bayuga, Justin (Morgan) Payette, Robb Bergman, Doug (Emma-Jean) Bergman, Patrick (Tara) Duchateu, Brian (Ann) Duchateau, Alexis (Christian Turner) Bergman, and Allison Bergman. Jim is further survived by his 13 Great-Grandchildren as well as other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy (Kosnar) Bergman. son Stephen Bergman, and infant son, Joseph Bergman.

He is further preceded by his parents, Henry and Matilda (Bongers) Bergman.

siblings; Beatrice (Norb) Segal, Charles “Bud” Bergman, Norb (Grace) Bergman, Joan (Harv) Crowe, Evelyn (Bert) VanderWegan and Mabel (Don) Bloy.

Family and friends may gather at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N. Webster Ave. De Pere on Monday, July 8, 2024, from 3:30pm until 6:30pm with a memorial service to follow at 6:30pm with Deacon Kurt Peot (nephew) officiating. Honor of the guard to follow by VFW Post 2113.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the caring staff of Unity Hospice and Renaissance Assisted Living for the wonderful care given to Jim.