Feb.
17, 1940 - Feb. 25, 2010SOUTH BEND - Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, Martin A. Bergeson, 70, of South Bend, IN, went home to God on Thursday. He is survived by his best friend and beloved wife, Penny (DuFour) Bergeson, with whom he shared 48 loving years of marriage. Martin is also survived by his loving children, Lisa Hernandez and Laurie Bergeson of South Bend, Lynn Bronzan (Jeff) of Visalia, CA, Lee Forsberg (Jesse) of Plainfield, IL, and Daniel Bergeson of Los Angeles, CA; and brothers, Joseph Bergeson (Kim) of Menomonee Falls, WI, and George Bergeson (Barbara) of LaGrange, GA. Marty had a special place in his heart for and is survived by his nine grandchildren, Ana Gardini (Anthony), Amy, Angelica, Andrea, Victor M. Hernandez and their father, Victor G. Hernandez, Anthony and Thomas Gallino, Lindsay Bronzan and Kienan Forsberg. He adored his two great-grandchildren, Isabella and Silvio Gardini. Martin was preceded in his death by his devoted parents, George and Lena Bergeson. He was born and raised in Beloit, WI, and attended Beloit Catholic High School where he was president of his class. He graduated magna cum laude from Loras College, Des Moines, IA. Martin worked for over 30 years at Shurflo Pump Co. based in California. He spent the bulk of his career as vice president of Sales & Marketing for Shurflo. Marty loved the people he worked with and had many lasting friendships over the years. Martin was a leader and the patriarch of his family. He was often looked to for advice and guidance by his family, friends, and colleagues. Marty loved the outdoors and was an avid sportsman. He was most at home in a deer or duck blind. He loved to share stories of his adventures with his friends and family. Most of all, Marty was known for his warm smile, the twinkle in his eye and his quick wit. He had a kind, loving heart. All who knew him loved him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 2, 2010, at Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood Drive, South Bend, where friends may call from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. Monday, March 1, 2010, and a Rosary will be said at 6:00 p.m. Burial will be at a later date at Mount Thabor Cemetery in Beloit, WI. Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel, and Southlawn Cremation Services are assisting the family with arrangements. Contributions may be made to the Little Flower Food Pantry, 54191 N. Ironwood Drive, South Bend, IN 46635; or to the American Cancer Society , 601 W. Edison Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Online condolences to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.