Today, we gather to honour and remember the life of Gerry Bergen — a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, loyal friend, and a man whose presence left a lasting impact on every road he traveled and every heart he touched.
Gerry was born on December 18, 1959, to Peter and Freda Bergen of Elm Creek, Manitoba. His faith took root in his youth, and in his late teens, he was baptized in the Homewood church — a decision that would anchor much of the character and kindness we came to know so well in him.
It was at Young People’s in Carman that Gerry first noticed a girl named Ruth — and in true Gerry fashion, once he set his heart on something, he didn’t waste time. At the Homewood Church Picnic in June 1974, he asked her on a date. She said yes. Love quickly followed. Gerry knew Ruth was the one, and he proposed. When Ruth needed a bit of time, Gerry didn’t push — he simply asked again. This time, she said yes. And with the blessing of Ruth’s father, William Penner, they were married on October 2, 1977, in Winkler.
Together, they built a beautiful life — one full of love, laughter, and family. Their children Cindy, Stephanie, and Jeremy brought more joy and purpose to Gerry’s life than words could ever fully express. He was so proud of each one of them — their accomplishments, their character, and the lives they’ve built. He celebrated every milestone, often from afar when work called, but always with his heart firmly at home.
Though Gerry began as a farmer alongside his father Peter, his heart belonged to the open road. His career as a professional driver took him across Canada and the U.S., hauling everything from simple cargo to massive oversized equipment — which he especially loved. He wore his perfect driving record like a badge of honour, once joking that he had driven more miles in reverse than all three of his kids had driven forward. It’s hard to argue with that — he truly was a master of the road.
Gerry had a deep love for his community. Whether it was helping build the Elm Creek golf course, volunteering at the local rink, dressing up as Santa for the nursery school children, or lending a hand at The Bunker in Winkler — Gerry gave what he could, whenever he could. His time with the Winkler fire department, though brief, was another sign of his commitment to serve.
If you ever shared a meal at Gerry and Ruth’s table, you know that food was love in their home. Gerry’s cooking was legendary — hearty, delicious, and always made with the intention of bringing people together. No one left hungry, and everyone was welcome.
Outside of work and family, Gerry found joy in the simple things: motorsports with friends, camping trips with Ruth, and quiet evenings by the fire. These were the moments that filled his soul.
Above all, Gerry had a big heart. He was thoughtful and caring — always sending flowers to Ruth on special occasions, and just because. He knew how to make people feel seen, valued, and loved.
Gerry is predeceased by his mother, Freda, and leaves behind a family who will forever carry his memory: his wife Ruth; daughter Cindy (and husband Ted); daughter Stephanie (and husband Scott and their son Hamish); son Jeremy (and wife Sheri); his father Peter (and wife Lena); and his sister Becky (with husband Len and family).
We will miss his laugh, his wisdom, his stories, and his fierce love. But in the stories we share, the meals we cook, and the roads we travel — Gerry’s spirit lives on.
May he rest in peace, and may we carry forward his legacy of love, generosity, and strength.
Memorial Donations in memory of Gerry may be made to:
The Bunker, or a “Charity Of Your Choice”
Gerry was born on December 18, 1959, to Peter and Freda Bergen of Elm Creek, Manitoba. His faith took root in his youth, and in his late teens, he was baptized in the Homewood church — a decision that would anchor much of the character and kindness we came to know so well in him.
It was at Young People’s in Carman that Gerry first noticed a girl named Ruth — and in true Gerry fashion, once he set his heart on something, he didn’t waste time. At the Homewood Church Picnic in June 1974, he asked her on a date. She said yes. Love quickly followed. Gerry knew Ruth was the one, and he proposed. When Ruth needed a bit of time, Gerry didn’t push — he simply asked again. This time, she said yes. And with the blessing of Ruth’s father, William Penner, they were married on October 2, 1977, in Winkler.
Together, they built a beautiful life — one full of love, laughter, and family. Their children Cindy, Stephanie, and Jeremy brought more joy and purpose to Gerry’s life than words could ever fully express. He was so proud of each one of them — their accomplishments, their character, and the lives they’ve built. He celebrated every milestone, often from afar when work called, but always with his heart firmly at home.
Though Gerry began as a farmer alongside his father Peter, his heart belonged to the open road. His career as a professional driver took him across Canada and the U.S., hauling everything from simple cargo to massive oversized equipment — which he especially loved. He wore his perfect driving record like a badge of honour, once joking that he had driven more miles in reverse than all three of his kids had driven forward. It’s hard to argue with that — he truly was a master of the road.
Gerry had a deep love for his community. Whether it was helping build the Elm Creek golf course, volunteering at the local rink, dressing up as Santa for the nursery school children, or lending a hand at The Bunker in Winkler — Gerry gave what he could, whenever he could. His time with the Winkler fire department, though brief, was another sign of his commitment to serve.
If you ever shared a meal at Gerry and Ruth’s table, you know that food was love in their home. Gerry’s cooking was legendary — hearty, delicious, and always made with the intention of bringing people together. No one left hungry, and everyone was welcome.
Outside of work and family, Gerry found joy in the simple things: motorsports with friends, camping trips with Ruth, and quiet evenings by the fire. These were the moments that filled his soul.
Above all, Gerry had a big heart. He was thoughtful and caring — always sending flowers to Ruth on special occasions, and just because. He knew how to make people feel seen, valued, and loved.
Gerry is predeceased by his mother, Freda, and leaves behind a family who will forever carry his memory: his wife Ruth; daughter Cindy (and husband Ted); daughter Stephanie (and husband Scott and their son Hamish); son Jeremy (and wife Sheri); his father Peter (and wife Lena); and his sister Becky (with husband Len and family).
We will miss his laugh, his wisdom, his stories, and his fierce love. But in the stories we share, the meals we cook, and the roads we travel — Gerry’s spirit lives on.
May he rest in peace, and may we carry forward his legacy of love, generosity, and strength.
Memorial Donations in memory of Gerry may be made to:
The Bunker, or a “Charity Of Your Choice”