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MARTIN BERGEN 1927 - 2017 After a lengthy battle with dementia and heart disease, Martin Bergen passed away peacefully at Bethania Personal Care Home on March 7, 2017. Martin was predeceased by his father Martin Bergen (1930), mother Sara Abrams (1991), older brother Martin (1925), brother Peter (1930), brother Peter Braun (1990), sister Neta Braun (2007), brother George Braun (2011) and wife Ruth (nee Spletzer) (2001). He is survived by daughter Miriam (Louise Redekop); wife Anny and her family, sister Kay Winter (John), sister Frieda Bueckert and brother Bernie Braun (Monica), as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Martin Bergen was born in Schoenhorst, Ukraine on July 24, 1927, to Martin Bergen and Sara Abrams. He lost his father at a young age and his mother married widower Peter Braun. The family grew and lived in the neighbouring village of Neuendorf. In 1941, the family lived under German army occupation. However, the tide of the war changed and in October 1943, the family fled westward in fear of the advancing Russian army. Martin was conscripted by the German army at the age of 15, serving as a medic. In 1945, he surrendered to American Forces, who later turned him over to the French army. He was sent to a French POW camp near Bordeaux for three years. He returned to Germany in 1948. After having regained contact with his family, which was now living in Canada, Martin left Germany in 1953, arriving in Winnipeg on Thanksgiving. He found work in Atikokan, Ontario until 1954. Thanksgiving that year, he met his future wife Ruth. They were married in 1955 and daughter Miriam was born to them the following year. Now having to support a family, Martin decided to go into business for himself. After a few failed attempts, he and Ruth founded Viceroy Painting and Decorating. They ran the business out of the basement of their home until he started building apartments. In 1962, Martin partnered with Jake Letkemann to incorporate Marlborough Development for the construction aspect. Martin and Ruth also founded Edison Rental Agency, now known as Edison Properties, as the property management entity. By 1969, this venture was the beginning of a very successful enterprise. Martin also became involved in the political scene. As a member of the Progressive Conservative Party, he worked behind the scenes during several national, provincial and civic elections. This did not endear him to many people, as he created not a little controversy. Having come from a poor background, Martin became involved in philanthropy. He served on the board of many charitable organizations, giving freely of his time and resources. In 2001, Ruth passed away of cancer. This was a very lonely and difficult time for him. However, in 2002, he met Anny Rempel (nee Dyck). Theirs was a short courtship and they married in 2003. The family suddenly grew ten-fold. Martin and Anny enjoyed sitting in the backyard at the house on Appleton in the summer, watching the birds come to the feeders. People dropping by were treated to Mr. Bergen's wine and good fellowship. Not long after they were married, Martin began showing signs of dementia. Miriam began taking on more of the responsibilities of Edison Properties. The dementia progressively took greater hold of his mind and Annie took on more and more of a caretaker role. She was very caring and dedicated to him. In 2014, Martin became a resident of Bethania Personal Care Home. His health started declining more rapidly before Christmas last year until his passing on March 7. The family would like to thank Bethania Personal Care Home, Comforts of Home Care Inc., Dr. Christine Loepp, and Dr. Kathy Knezic. In lieu of flowers, donations in Martin's memory may be made to Concordia Hospital Foundation, St. Boniface Hospital Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, Alzheimer Society Manitoba or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Grand Ballroom at Fort Garry Place, 85 Garry Street, on Thursday, March 16 at 1:30 p.m. Reception to follow service on the 5th floor. Interment will be at Glen Eden Cemetery, 4477 Main Street, West St. Paul. Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 204-338-7111
Publish Date: Mar 13, 2017
MARTIN BERGEN 1927 - 2017 After a lengthy battle with dementia and heart disease, Martin Bergen passed away peacefully at Bethania Personal Care Home on March 7. Martin was predeceased by his father Martin Bergen (1930), mother Sara Abrams (1991), older brother Martin (1925), brother Peter (1930), brother Peter Braun (1990), sister Neta Braun (2007), brother George Braun (2011) and wife Ruth (nee Spletzer) (2001). He is survived by daughter Miriam (Louise Redekop), wife Anny and her family, sister Kay Winter (John), sister Frieda Bueckert and brother Bernie Braun (Monica), as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Martin Bergen was born in Schoenhorst, Ukraine on July 24, 1927, to Martin Bergen and Sara Abrams. He lost his father at a young age and his mother married widower Peter Braun. The family grew and lived in the neighbouring village of Neuendorf. In 1941, the family lived under German army occupation. However, the tide of the war changed and in October 1943, the family fled westward in fear of the advancing Russian army. Martin was conscripted by the German army at the age of 15, serving as a medic. In 1945, he surrendered to American Forces, who later turned him over to the French army. He was sent to a French POW camp near Bordeaux for three years. He returned to Germany in 1948. After having regained contact with his family, which was now living in Canada, Martin left Germany in 1953, arriving in Winnipeg on Thanksgiving. He found work in Atikokan, Ontario until 1954. Thanksgiving that year, he met his future wife Ruth. They were married in 1955, and daughter Miriam was born to them the following year. Now having to support a family, Martin decided to go into business for himself. After a few failed attempts, he and Ruth founded Viceroy Painting and Decorating. They ran the business out of the basement of their home until he started building apartments. In 1962, Martin partnered with Jake Letkemann to incorporate Marlborough Development for the construction aspect. Martin and Ruth also founded Edison Rental Agency, now known as Edison Properties, as the property management entity. By 1969, this venture was the beginning of a very successful enterprise. Martin also became involved in the political scene. As a member of the Progressive Conservative Party, he worked behind the scenes during several national, provincial and civic elections. This did not endear him to many people, as he created not a little controversy. Having come from a poor background, Martin became involved in philanthropy. He served on the board of many charitable organizations, giving freely of his time and resources. In 2001, Ruth passed away of cancer. This was a very lonely and difficult time for him. However, in 2002, he met Anny Rempel (nee Dyck). Theirs was a short courtship and they married in 2003. The family suddenly grew ten-fold. Martin and Anny enjoyed sitting in the backyard at the house on Appleton in the summer, watching the birds come to the feeders. People dropping by were treated to Mr. Bergen's wine and good fellowship. Not long after they were married, Martin began showing signs of dementia. Miriam began taking on more of the responsibilities of Edison Properties. The dementia progressively took greater hold of his mind and Annie took on more and more of a caretaker role. She was very caring and dedicated to him. In 2014, Martin became a resident of Bethania Personal Care Home. His health started declining more rapidly before Christmas last year until his passing on March 7. The family would like to thank Bethania Personal Care Home, Comforts of Home Care Inc., Dr. Christine Loepp and Dr. Kathy Knezic. In lieu of flowers, donations in Martin's memory may be made to Concordia Hospital Foundation, St. Boniface Hospital Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, Alzheimer Society Manitoba or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Grand Ballroom at Fort Garry Place, 85 Garry St. on Thursday, March 16 at 1:30 p.m. Interment will be at Glen Eden Cemetery, 4477 Main St., West St. Paul. Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 204-338-7111
Publish Date: Mar 11, 2017
MARTIN BERGEN Peacefully on March 7, 2017 Martin Bergen, age 89, passed away at Bethania Personal Care Home. Longer obituary to follow in Saturday's paper. Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 204-338-7111
Publish Date: Mar 10, 2017
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 13, 2017
Condolences & Memories (17 entries)
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My sympathies to the family after the passing away of such an inspirational man. Working for Accurate Concrete as subcontractors, we were always driven by Martin's drive to get things done. There were never shortcuts, as all the trades he engaged were of the highest quality and were always dedicated to effectuate their tasks beyond the standard of the norm. As the right hand man to one of the three owners of Accurate Concrete, I was privy to the bi-weekly get-togethers among the main construction leaders. I was respectful, versed and knowledgeable of German history. This is where I spent many hours over the course of Fort Garry Place's construction conversing with Martin and his main contractors. Frederick, Wendell, Erwin, the Warkentin brothers were there. Whether communicating with him on the job or socializing in those bi-weekly schnapps sessions, what a gentleman he was, but grounded in his traumatic experiences. May he be blessed, for he has been a good man. A good example of what a person can achieve with unbounded courage and vision. - Posted by: Gilles Vincent Laroche (Tradesman for Accurate concrete on Fort Garry Place.) on: Nov 30, 2022
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That crucial thread that if pulled from a tapestry unravels the entire piece, that is the memory of Martin Bergen in the tapestry of my life. He offered me a chance at a summer job, where I met a fellow who introduced me to his cousin, my future soulmate. Mr Bergen attended our wedding 27 plus years ago, and shortly after offered me a full time job. He could impossible have guessed in how many ways he positively influenced the lives of thousands, thousands of tapestries where the special colorful thread of Mr Bergen will forever be part of. - Posted by: Berni Plett (employee) on: Mar 17, 2017
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Life is that proverbial tapestry, one tread is pulled out and the entire piece gets uraveled. Martin Bergen gave me a chance at a summer job, which lead me to meet someone who introduced me to his cousin, who became my soul mate. He attended our wedding over 27 years ago and soon thereafter offered me a full time job. Without Mr B my life as that of thousands of others would not be the colourful tapestry it is. - Posted by: Berni Plett (Employee) on: Mar 16, 2017
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My Dad and I have very fond memories of Mr. Bergen - Dad's childhood memories going all the way back to being neighbours in 'the old country' and re-connecting after The War on a job site in Atikokan - my memories of Mr. Bergen's warm personality and generosity to so many community-causes...with warmest regards, vj - Posted by: Vic Janzen (friend) on: Mar 16, 2017
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My deepest condolences to the Bergin & Winter family in the passing of Mr. Martin Bergin, my prayers are with you. God bless. Al Robidoux - Posted by: Al Robidoux (Friend) on: Mar 15, 2017
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I have very fond memories of dealing with Martin when I was a young man in the fire alarm business. He was a tough, but fair man to deal with. When the City came up with by-laws that he thought were unreasonable,with his help, we were able to get some of the laws changed to benefit everyone in the property management industry. He had always cared for his employees, contractors, and tenants in a way that is unheard of in this industry, and that continues today as a result of his mentoring. I wish his family my deepest condolences for their loss. Winnipeg has lost one of the best businessmen I have met in my lifetime and he will be sadly missed. Chris Brown Triad Protection - Posted by: Chris Brown (business) on: Mar 15, 2017
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My sincerest condolences to Miriam and family. - Posted by: Kevin & Shelley Neumann () on: Mar 15, 2017
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I worked for Mr Bergen for many years keeping the main grounds and fifth floor pond area up. I also decorated Mr Bergen home and Fort Garry place for years. I learnt so much from him in my years under his wings. A stern man and to his point but one needed to know how to take it. Great spirit and heart was him to a tea! I remember cleaning the brass in the mall railings and just as I finished watching him put his hands all over them then look at me. Lol I cleaned them as soon as he left to find him 5 mins later come back to check if I had cleanup the finger prints. I enjoyed my may talks and walks with Mr B , enjoying his life stories over wine of his past life at work and at home! Mr B wasn't a talker he was a doer. He liked things to look nice and hated the modern glass buildings of today. I have so many memories in my heart of Mr B and forever they shall stay. Peace be with you Mr B on your new journey in life and the biggest of hugs to you Anni! Love you both always and forever . - Posted by: Jonny (Past worker) on: Mar 14, 2017
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I was a cook at Tiffanys and when Mr and Mrs Bergen came there to eat he always came in the kitchen to say hello to the kitchen staff. He was so caring and friendly that's what made him a respectable gentleman. My condolences to Miriam and family, R.I.P Mr.Bergen. - Posted by: Oliver meier (Ex- employee ) on: Mar 14, 2017
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I remember going as a tradesman to a construction site. I asked who was in charge. I was pointed to this older guy pushing a broom, and cleaning up. It was Martin Bergen! - Posted by: G.S. Bahuaud (None) on: Mar 13, 2017
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Herzliches Beileid die Welt ist ein Stück ärmer geworden, es war mir eine Ehre Sie zu kennen. Ein feiner und liebenswürdiger Mensch hat uns verlassen. - Posted by: Brigitte Beres (ex employee merteens) on: Mar 12, 2017
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My thoughts and prayers to Miriam and all past and present employees of Edison Properties. I would fill in for managers on sick or vacation leave since the early '80's and now am a tenant. Not lately, but have visited with Mr. Bergen when he would be sitting in Bethania Foyer, when visiting my sister. When all the wall air-conditioners were removed, I asked if I could have one for my summer home, and he gladly gave me one. He was a kind man. - Posted by: Loreen Kenyon (Spare employee) on: Mar 12, 2017
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Martin was a true gentleman and friend to the citizens of Winnipeg. I met him in the late 90's when I was a supervisor in the Wpg Police Service Drug Unit, and without getting into specifics, he assisted our unit, providing support, which resulted in many successful prosecutions. A man to be truly admired. My sincere condolences to his family and a great loss to the community. - Posted by: Jeff Bellingham (retired Det/Sgt Wpg Police (Associate) on: Mar 11, 2017
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I personally knew and dealt with Mr. Bergen for quite a number of years during my employment with both Royal Trust and Sun Life. We enjoyed a great relationship over those years and I had the utmost respect for him. The City of Winnipeg is a much better place today because of his involvement in the development community. My sincerest condolences to Miriam and family. - Posted by: Ed Sabot (Business acquaintance ) on: Mar 11, 2017
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Miriam and members of Martin's family. Please note that Martin has been a very trusted friend and associate thru the years of the construction and development of Marlborough enterprises in the N.E. Winnipeg area. Martin a man of trust to a hand shake will be remembered/missed by many who can but admire this virtue! Martin I have missed you, may the good lord be awaiting your trusted Handshake! - Posted by: Cam Neirinck (Friend/business support, Mb Hydro Supervisor, River East) on: Mar 11, 2017
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Offering my sincerest condolences. When my dad, Isaac Bergen and I put together the Salomon Bergen Book many years ago, I know that Martin was a great support both financially and physically (connecting us to Derksen printers and handling everything on that end). When we gathered that year at CMBC for a Bergen reunion he took the whole kit and caboodle to Fort Garry Place for dinner on the Saturday of that weekend. He was kind and generous to us all and I am sorry to hear of his ill health and passing. Isaac passed away 5 years ago on May 12...just recently I was wondering about Martin and actually googled and found no obituary, Was wondering because even when Dad was still around he told me that Martin suffered with dementia or Alzheimers. Must have been a hard thing to witness and for him to bear to have been such a vibrant powerful being and then get felled with that awful illness. My MiL recently passed and that was my first personal dealing with a mind disease and it is truly heartbreaking for both the person and family. I know that it is hard to permanently say good-bye but I also know from experience that the goodbyes have probably been said many times over the years. May God bless you all and keep, may you have that Peace that passes understanding, and Joy as you prepare the Celebration of Life and Love as you are overwhelmed with memories....Marita - Posted by: marita bergen gunther (cousin) on: Mar 11, 2017
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Miriam, I worked for your dad managing the Sarina Towers & the Sunrise quite a few years ago, I found him to be a kind & generous man. he cared about his tenants My Deepest Sympathy Carolyn. - Posted by: Carolyn Kowalchuk (ex employee) on: Mar 10, 2017
