Marlene Jane (Pflug) Bergman

Marlene Bergman

December 1931 – May 6, 2019 (87 years)

Marlene was born to Rev. Edwin and Mareta in Kansas. God blessed this family with four children: Marlene, Jean, Betty, and Richard. Marlene was introduced to her “Fritz,” Fred Bergman, by Fred’s brother, Walter. Both Fred and Walter played the organ at the church where Marlene’s father was pastor. Marlene caught Fred’s eye immediately. In 1950 she graduated from Walther Lutheran High School in Melrose Park, Illinois near Chicago and he graduated from Concordia Teachers College in River Forest. They were married on June 11th. Marlene and Fred were married for 65 years. They were blessed with seven children: Paul, Susan, Jane, John, Mark, James, and Peter. They were also loving grandparents to Matthew, Kenneth, Timothy, Karin, Jacob, Adam, Richelle, Kara, Alyse, Caitlyn, Emilie, Michaela, Rebekah and Rachel. Fifteen great-grandchildren loved calling her GiGi.

Marlene and Fred served the Lord in seven churches and their schools in three states. During those years Marlene wore many hats. She was a kindergarten teacher, daycare teacher, bus driver, and even a custodian. Her children would affirm, though, that her greatest role was as Mom. They woke up in the morning to the rattling of pots and pans in the kitchen, knew Mom was always there when they were sick or had a paper to do for school, and consistently found that no matter how much food she put on the table it was always exactly the right amount. No one left the table wanting more, but at the same time there were rarely leftovers, either. Marlene held the household and the family together. Her children know that they could always count on her to be there for their needs and with a listening ear.

Marlene loved a good game of cards. She always made sure that the decks were handy and got her family together regularly to wear out many boxes of cards. She was also skilled at cross stitch, crochet, and knitting. She blessed many with afghans, hats, scarves, and kitchen scrubbers. She was a loyal Angel’s fan and saw many games with her beloved Fritz, family members, and friends. Even in her final weeks, if the Angels were playing, the TV was on.

In recent years Marlene has continued to serve her Lord and others. She served on the altar guild at Immanuel for many years. She opened her yard to grapefruit, orange, and lemon harvesting. Her children and grandchildren knew her home and her heart were always open.

Her children rise up and call her blessed. Proverbs 31:28 (from a bookmark she used)

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