Robert Elmer Bergh

Robert “Bob” Bergh, a devoted husband, father, community leader, and lifelong learner, passed away after a life rich in dedication and joy.   Born in Wisconsin, Bob’s journey began with service in the Air Force.  While there, he met Mary, a nursing student who became his beloved wife of nearly 68 years--a partnership filled with devotion, laughter and countless adventures.

They built a life together raising four children in Western Kansas, where Bob successfully farmed milo, corn, and wheat for 25 years. He had a special fondness for two‑cylinder tractors — the steady pop‑pop of the engine was music to his ears.

Later, Bob and Mary returned to college, graduating from Friends University in 1986 with bachelor’s degrees in human resource management. Bob’s love of driving and exploring new places led him to deliver cars for Koch Industries — often with Mary happily by his side.

Bob was deeply committed to community service. He taught Hunter Safety in Wichita County, served on the boards of Scott City Coop and the Wichita County Soil and Water Conservation District, and was proud to serve as Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus. And then there was Santa. Many years, Bob became one of Santa’s favorite buddies, stepping into the big red suit to bring joy to children and adults alike.

Bob served as a city councilman and later as Mayor of Garden Plain. With Mary, he led, taught lessons and recruited new members to the West Side Steppers Square Dance Club. Bob proved that his two left feet could keep perfect rhythm when paired with Mary's. Bob was a founding member of the Knights of the Stainless-Steel Table, a club specializing in birthday parties, coffee and donuts.

Family was at the center of Bob’s life. Mary was always by his side — so much so that most people simply referred to them as “Bob and Mary.” July 4th was one of his favorite holidays. He passed down his fireworks know-how and safety to his children and loved the annual party that continues to this day.

He cherished time with his grandchildren, who spent a week each summer with him and Mary in Wichita. Activities included fishing, gardening, ice cream and movies, trips to the zoo, science and aviation museums, trains, and of course, mandatory cookie breaks.

Christmas was another highlight. Bob and Mary hosted their children and grandchildren every year, serving a big meal with Norwegian holiday bread, lefse, and cookie treats. Despite Bob’s best efforts, few were ever persuaded to share his love of lutefisk — but he never stopped trying.

Bob will be profoundly missed. His memory will live on through the many stories we tell--stories of his life experiences, the joyful times we shared together and his infinite wisdom.

Bob is survived by his sons, Dr. James (Carole) Bergh, William (Shelli) Bergh, and Dave (Amanda) Bergh, and his daughter, Susan Bergh. He leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Bob is preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Mary, his parents, Elmer and Geraldine Bergh and sister Doris Marlow.

A recitation of the Rosary will be held on Wednesday, December 10th, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m., both at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Garden Plain, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

St Anthony’s Catholic Church,

Exploration Place

B29 DOC Hanger, Education & Visitors Center

Sedgwick Co Zoo

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert Elmer Bergh, please visit our floral store.