Jerry Clifford Bergman
Born to John and Helen Bergman September 15, 1927 in Tacoma, WA, Jerry Bergman, 85, passed away November 27, 2012 in Federal Way, WA.
He graduated from Stadium High School in Tacoma in 1945, was in the US Navy from 1945-1948 and then the Naval Reserve until 1953.
Jerry began working for the Northern Pacific Railroad after high school wiping down steam engines in the Tacoma round house. He later hired out as a clerk and spent the rest of his career in management positions with Northern Pacific and Burlington Northern Railroads at many different locations across the US, retiring as Division Superintendent in Springfield, MO in 1982 and moving back to the Northwest.
Loving and devoted son, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather are the best word to describe Jerry. He was also one hell of a good Railroad Man. We are very proud of him and miss him tremendously.
Jerry enjoyed traveling and being with his family. Hawaii, Mexico, Palm Springs, Reno, Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, and Anderson Island motor home and boat trips were some of his favorites.
He had a great wit and sense of humor and was always the life of the party. He formed many strong and lasting friendships over his life.
Jerry is survived by his sister, Bonnie Merz of Yakima, WA; his four children and their families: Jerry (Jan), grandson, Danny (Lindsey), and great-grandchildren, Cayden & Mason; Tom (Joseph Smith); Jeff (Deanna), grandchildren, Danielle & Jesse, and great-grandson, Rage; Nancy (Shawn Dinsmore), grandchildren, Tamara, Jason & Desiree, and great-grandchildren, Kaidance & Blayd; also many nieces & nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Richard, and the love of his life for over 60 years, his wife, Shirley.
There will be a service Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, 10:30am at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th, Kent, WA, followed by a reception at St. James Episcopal Church, 24447 94th Ave. S, Kent, WA (253-852-4450).

Published in The Highline Times February 8, 2013