Bergen, Jacob R. (1886-1960)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1960 Oct 6 p. 8

Birth date: 1886 Sep 28

text of obituary:

JACOB R. BERGEN

Jacob R. Bergen was born in Buhler, Kan., on Sept. 28, 1886, to John and Anne (Regier) Bergen, whom he has now joined in the Lord.

Father spent his early years and received his education at Buhler, Kan., and Corn, Okla. It was following his return to Buhler in 1907 that he saw his need as a sinner and received Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour. On Easter Sunday of that year he followed the Lord through the waters of baptism and became a member of the Buhler Mennonite Brethren church. Rev. Henry Adrian officiated at this service.

He married Gertrude Loewen on Jan. 8, 1908, in Buhler. Their life together was a happy one and to the union were born four sons and two daughters. One infant daughter, Lilly, preceded him in death.

In 1923 he moved the family to Shafter, Calif., where they have lived since. He joined the Shafter Mennonite Brethren church on Feb. 17, 1924, and was an active member until he passed away. He was especially active in various building committees. He was a businessman, farmer and builder.

He enjoyed good health all of his life until recently. During the past summer he submitted to surgery while living at Shell Beach, and returned to Shafter in August. On Sept. 16, the Lord was gracious in allowing him to depart without too much pain and prolonged suffering.

Left to mourn his loss are his wife Gertrude Loewen Bergen, four sons, Pete, Walter, Harry and Roland; two daughters, Elizabeth and Elsie; four daughters-in-law and two sons-in-law; 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.