After a brief illness, Don Bergen passed away on Jan. 21, 2025, in Warsaw. He was 83.
Donald John Bergen was born to Jay and Carroll Bergen on May 23, 1941, in Lockport, N.Y. Don graduated from the University of Illinois and entered the United States Air Force following his graduation. He spent four years in the Air Force and achieved the rank of captain. Don was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service during his tour in Vietnam. Upon leaving the Air Force, Don began his 37-year career with RR Donnelley and Sons and pursued post-graduate education at the University of Chicago. He started in the Donnelley Chicago division, and was transferred to Lancaster, Pennsylvania. From there he moved to Warsaw and then to the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, division. He completed his career in the corporate offices in Chicago.
He was dedicated to supporting and enriching the communities in which he lived. During his initial stay in Warsaw, he held leadership roles on the YMCA Board as both treasurer and president. He was actively involved in the Breakfast Optimist Club of Warsaw, becoming a Distinguished President and Distinguished Lieutenant Governor of the Indiana North District. His community engagement continued as chairman of the United Way Campaign in 1985 and president-elect of the United Way board before transferring to Pittsburgh. In Pittsburgh, he served on the Contact USA (a national help and suicide line) board, also leading as its chairman. After retiring in Warsaw, he remained dedicated to community work, developing and managing Volunteer Kosciusko while maintaining his involvement with United Way. Don's commitment extended to the Warsaw Kiwanis Club, where he became president, and to the First United Methodist Church, where he participated on multiple committees over the years. His life was characterized by consistent, meaningful contributions to local organizations and community initiatives.
Don is survived by his wife Jacqueline whom he met while studying at University of Illinois. They were married for over 60 years. Don is also survived by his son, Mike (Casey); and daughter, Anne (Brian); as well as his grandchildren: Nick (Nina), Alex, Ben, Will, Tsegu and Aka. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Mark.
He was an amazing and dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He will be remembered for his love of family, his generous nature, and his ready laugh. Don had a wonderful sense of humor and truly enjoyed jokes (though he could never tell them). He was a lifelong sports fan and loved the Chicago Bears, Cubs, and the Fighting Illini. He loved reading, travel and anything involving his grandchildren. Don will be profoundly missed by family and friends.
Don’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1 at First United Methodist Church, 179 S. Indiana St., Warsaw, and officiated by Pastor Brian Smith. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 9:30 - 11 a.m. A graveside service will follow at Oakwood Cemetery of Warsaw with military rites conducted by members of the American Legion Post #49, V.F.W. #1126, both of Warsaw, and active-duty members of the Air Force Honor Guard. Arrangements were entrusted to Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw.
The family requests that memorial donations in Don’s memory be directed to Kosciusko County Community Foundation, Inc., 102 East Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580 to be designated to the “Kosciusko County Riley Kids Fund”; or to First United Methodist Church, 179 S. Indiana St., Warsaw, IN 46580.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.