Bergen, Clifford Earl
March 21, 1950 ~ February 26, 2012
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Cliff Bergen. Cliff was born in Smithers to Abraham and Melba (Bock). The family moved to Duncan in 1963 and Cliff graduated from Cowichan Senior Secondary in 1970. He met the love of his life, Jackie, and they were married in Ladysmith in 1973.
Cliff started his working career at Duncan Texaco as a 16 year old. After his graduation from school, he worked at the Crofton Pulp Mill. Deciding that he wanted to become a heavy duty mechanic, he worked steady graveyards and took the pre-apprenticeship course at Malaspina College during the day. He accepted a job offer from Finning and spent a total of 33 years working with the company, first as a heavy duty mechanic and then later as a parts salesman.
Cliff spent his life giving to others. He was a member of the Parksville Volunteer Fire Dept. for 21 years, serving as a lieutenant and training officer. He spent a great deal of time volunteering with the Sandy Shores Figure Skating club as a parent chaperone and judge. He had the honour of donating bone marrow to a young boy in Switzerland through the Canadian Red Cross. His love for his motorcycle was first and foremost, as he and Jackie spent many vacations travelling on the bike with friends and family.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jackie; his daughter, Heidi and son, Kris. He is remembered by his brothers: Harvey (Shirley), Ed (Elaine), Charlie (Sandie) and Bill (Glenna); his sisters: Pat Burgess, Myrna Stokes and Sandy Fetchko (Andrew), as well as their extended families.
The family wishes to thank the incredible staff at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital for their care and support through this difficult time.
A celebration of his life will be held Sunday, March 4th from 1pm-4pm at Cottonwood Golf Course. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the BC Cancer Society would be appreciated.