HELEN BERGEN (nee Koop)
May 13, 1925 – March 6, 2017
It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of our beloved Mother, Helen Bergen. Helen passed away peacefully at the age of 91 in Kelowna, B.C.
She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, John, the love of her life. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Bernard and Nicholas. She will be lovingly remembered by her brother Paul Koop (Sylvia), her 6 children (and spouses), Bernie, Bob (Marilyn), Glenn (Susan)¸Joyce, Gary, Earl, 12 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.
Helen was born in Melitopol, Berdjansk, USSR, the daughter of Paul and Helen Koop. Fleeing the aftermath of war and famine, the family immigrated to Canada shortly after her birth in May 1925. Life in Canada was a struggle as the family started over. Never adverse to hard work, Helen helped her father run the farm while her brothers were off at WW11.
Helen and John raised their children in Quesnel, B.C., and moved to Kelowna upon retiring. Where Helen worked for many more years helping manage the MCC Thrift Store. She took great joy in volunteering and gave freely of her time, joining quilting circles where she helped to make 100’s of blankets distributed to people struck by natural disasters. Very involved with their church, Helen and John assisted with numerous fund raising events, the proceeds of which went to those most in need.
The family wish to thank the staff at Lake Country Manor for their compassionate care during Helen’s stay there.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE: APRIL 29, 2017 1:30 pm
REID HALL, BENVOULIN HERITAGE CHURCH