VAN BERGEN – William (Bill) Van Bergen of Brooks, Alberta, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on December 1, 2017 at the Brooks Health Centre at the age of 78 years. He was born to the late John and Phyllis Van Bergen, February 10, 1939, in Gem, Alberta. Bill attended school at the Gem School and later at SAIT College and Fairview College. Bill married Charlotte Harder in 1964, in Gem and they lived together in Bassano, Rosemary, Gem, DeBolt, Fairview and Vegreville before retiring in Rosemary. Bill and Charlotte have been privileged to live at the Newbrook Lodge for the past 1½ years where they have received exceptional care and comfort. Both wish to express sincere thanks for this time of blessing to all of the staff and their dear friends. Bill was an instructor at Fairview College and was passionate about making a difference in the lives of students. He was fond of delivering computer courses to the elderly. Bill was a true pioneer, having broken prairie sod near Gem. He also broke land near Debolt, Alberta. He was passionate about farming. Until his health failed him, he still kept his “hands on approach” by operating equipment for his nephews Wilfred and Weston Harder. Bill leaves his love and partner Charlotte of over 53 years. Bill was very blessed and is survived by three children: Philip and (Leanne) Van Bergen of Beaujour, MB.; Floyd and (Christine) Van Bergen of Wembley, AB.; and Carla Stiles and Andrew Sorg, of Calgary, Ab.; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Betty, Dorothy, Mary and Martha. Bill loved his family dearly. A Celebration of Life was held at Thom’s Funeral Home at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, December 5, Pastor Daryle Fox Officiated. Graveside Services were held at Gem Cemetery. In memory of Bill, if family or friend’s desire, memorial tributes may be made to Canadian Bible Society or the Brooks Health Foundation. For further information, to leave a message of sympathy or to light a candle in memory of Bill, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.
