Van Bergen, Henry (1912-2003)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2002 Jul 11 p. 26

Birth date: 1912 Sep 29

text of obituary:

HENRY VAN BERGEN

Henry H. Van Bergen died May 17. He was born Sept. 29, 1912 to Henry and Minna Van Bergen in Alt Samara, Alexanderthal, Russia. In 1924, the family emigrated to Canada, settling in St. Annes, Man., then Steinbach, Man. The family moved to Gem, Alta. in 1928. Henry made a commitment to Christ in 1930 as a result of evening Bible studies. He was baptized July 1931 by Henry Siemens, Sr. The family moved to Black Creek, B.C. in 1934. He became a charter member of Black Creek MB Church in 1935. For 30 years he ushered, sang in choirs and served in other ways . He married Irene Matthies Aug. 28, 1938. They worked on two farms. Henry was a carpenter. He was creative, industrious and artistic. He enjoyed his gardens and flowers. Henry and Irene moved to Evergreen Village, Clearbrook, in 1983. He was active socially, enjoying friendships in church and the community. His faith in God and his commitment to the church were very important to him. He served with cheerfulness and dedication. He is mourned by Irene; daughter Ellenor Tweedle, Campbell River, B.C.; sons Ed of Langley, B.C. and Herb of Fort St. John, B.C.; 7 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters. The funeral was May 22 in Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C. with Henry Thiessen ministering.