When you are listening to sombody, completely, attentively, then you are listening not only to the words, but also to the feeling of what is being conveyed, to the whole of it, not part of it.
Janis did that always. 
She touched my soul and the souls of those that were lucky enough to have had her in their lives. 

The overwhelming empathy and love shown by the family on Saturday was immeasurable.  We watched and we listened.  We cried with you, for the pain of your loss, conveyed in words and embrace.  I could not help but think as an outsider to the family looking in as a friend, how proud Janis/Mom would have been.

With the Skinner families deepest sympathy,
Much love,
Karen,

Janis, you lifted each of us up to what you believed we could be even before we knew it; you gave us energy we sometimes did not think we had; you always added to our lives even when you doubted that it made a difference. Being in your presence brought energy, kindness and a gentle understanding so rarely found in life. Didn't we delight in the fact that neither distance nor time could alter our close friendship from 1969. Although I am far away in Vancouver, I honour you today, Janis, for all that you brought to this world. Oh but, it will not be the same tomorrow simply because you, my friend, will not be there.

Kristian, if there's one thing I would say about your mom, it's that every time we spoke, I felt she was truly genuine and sincerely engaged. She has passed this on to you, to your family and to those close to you. It's rare, and striking to see the incredible influence she has had on who you all are. Through this, and much more, she has left a profound mark on us. My deep condolences, thoughts and support are with you and your family.

Our condolences to your family.  Praying for the repose of your mom's soul & comfort & strength for you & your family.

We are sorry for your passing Janis. You brought kindness and warmth to us all. We celebrate your life and wish you peace. Our hearts and prayers are with you. We send our condolences to family and friends.

I had the privilege to know Janis during my high school years and was fortunate to have the opportunity to experience her sincere, caring and warm spirit during those influential years.  Michelle and family I am deeply saddened for your loss.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

My deepest condolences Kim to you and all your family on the loss of Janis. You have shared this journey with me the last few years... so painful for you. I hope that the time you were able to spend with her will buoy you when things get rough.. Love Judy, Mathew, Sydney and the Wise family

June 15, 2012
We met Janis when she was my sister Anne's roommate at Princess Margaret. Although we didn't know her for a long time she made us feel like we had been friends forever. She was such a warm, kind person and this spirit brightened the room even though it was a hospital with serious illness all around us. We also had the pleasure of getting to know Janis' wonderful sister, Kim. Anne, Gail and I cherished their friendship and Anne found her companionship a bright spot in her days at PMH. 
We are so glad we got to spend some time with both Janis & Kim.
Laurie Miller Peterborough ON

To the Bergey and Darville families,
Please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of Janis. It has been quite a while since we last saw her (at the Brookfield High School reunion). In High school we were very good friends and she and I got into a lot of mischief together. (Ren)  We are so sorry for your loss and our prayers are with all of you at this time.
Renate and Geoff

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Kristjan. The fellas and I will always be there for you. You're a great friend and a wonderful person, and we all love you.

Janis Bergey was a second mother to me. When I was young and alone in the city with my own family on the other side of the world, she invited me into her home. Her family became mine. And it wasn't just me… she was everybody's mother. When she looked at you, she may have seen your flaws, but she spoke to your greatness.

In her honour, I'm asking you, my dear friends, to do the same. If you are unaware of your greatness, seek it out. If you've seen a glimpse of it, take steps towards it. I know that would have made her proud. 

She knew who I was before I did. She saw greatness in me before I did … and I swear to God, I'm going to prove her right.

Thank you Janis.

Kristjan,

This is such sad news - my thoughts and heart are with you and your family. 

I can not echo enough both Kristyn and Jaclyn's words - your mother was - how do we say it - a "force" in all of our young lives. I loved how she always wanted to get down to the "good stuff": the boys we liked, the teachers we didn't and what we thought about the world. Being around her made me feel bold - like you should tell the world what you think and not apologize if they don't like it (in fact, it's better if they don't.) 

It's so funny - the OJ Simpson story was the first one that jumped into my head when I got your message. I've told that story of sitting in her car so many times. The second, was that amazing oreo, whipped cream cake in the flower pot for your birthday, I thought she was brilliant!

Kristjan, thank you for sharing your mom with us during those years, she, clearly, had a lasting and important impression on each one of us.

Love to you and your family.

Dear Kristjan, I couldn't agree more with Jaclyn's note. I'm sorry that we are not connecting over happier times. Those lunches that we used to have were the best. Your Mom was always so kind to us and gave us nothing but great advice. I loved being able to come over and just hang out at your house and chat. Sometimes I don't think that you knew what hit you Kristjan when we were all together.

Your Mom is someone that I will always remember and what an inspiring woman she was. I'm sure that she was nothing but poised and strong throughout everything and you are so lucky to have had such an amazing mother!

Dear Kristjan, I'm truly sorry to hear about your mom, she was an amazing woman. My condolences to you and your family as I know this must be such a hard time.

I'm so glad you reached out to us, I remember those lunches fondly as well. Your mom made such a delicious crepe and was always so gracious to pick us all up and create these great moments. I always remember your mom keeping us a little bit late in your van to hear the verdict of the OJ Simpson trial. I remember she said 'you guys will all remember where you were when you heard the verdict of this trial for the rest of your lives'. She was right. 

I remember your mom as a beautiful, strong woman who encouraged us all to think for ourselves and make decisions based on critical thinking and what we knew was right as opposed to what we were told to do.

I'm saddened by the news of your mom passing but am sure she's in a better place looking down on us all.

I can not find the words to describe how much Janice touched my life.  She always had a way of making you feel like the most important person while in her presents.  She helped me find my confidence and purpose as a troubled teenager and made me feel I succeeded as an adult.  She loved her family and friends like no one else, she gave all of herself to those she loved.  She played the role of my second mother and she showed me the invaluable qualities of unconditional love and understanding that I can only hope I can pass on to my children.  I know Janice is in a better place now but she will be forever missed.  Her wisdom, smile and beautiful heart will live on in the hearts of the many people who were lucky to have known her.  My prayers and condolence go out her friends and family.   Love always, Jill D'Amico

Janis always had a wonderful zest for life.  Her sense of humour was delightful and her laughter, infectious.  It has been my true pleasure to have known Janis and to have been her friend.

To Kim and her family,
During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you...
We send our prayers.
xo Wendy, Stef, Ryan and Aaron Preiano (Aurora)

To the Bergey and Darville families,
                                                      Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Janis.  It has been over 30 years since I last saw her in Ottawa but we have talked recently on Facebook.  I will remember her as the fun-loving and happy sister of Kim.  May she rest in peace.  Ken Marr, Western Australia.

Having only three memorable periods of time with her throughout my life all I can say is my Aunt Janis was the most kind-spirited, loving woman I knew. Being separated by a large distance, my only wish now is that I could have gone over and seen her, along with family, more. My heart goes out to her immediate family and friends, you were all very lucky to have had her so close. We lost someone truly special.

I will forever remember the summer that you and I had to together Janis. I wish there had been more. We will miss you dearly....Frances

Death has nothing to do with going away
The Sun Sets
The Moon Sets
But you are not gone.
It is with great sadness to hear of Janis passing,condolences and prayers to the family.She is now at peace.
Love Donna Gerke (Darville) cousin

On behalf of the Darville family in the Bahamas, we would like to extend our sincere condolences.  Janis was truly an angel on this earth and we would like for you all to know how much we mourn her even though we can not be there physically.  All our love.  

Monselle, Beryl, Diane and Natasha Darville.

A truly amazing woman who took a chance on a 16 year old,challenging,young man and started me on a life long pursuit of business. She held me to high standards at RBC that have serve me well my who life. My deepest sympathies to Damian, Michelle, Kristjan and Ben and the rest of the family. While I tragically have lost touch over the years, the memories of Janis will live on with me through my actions and pursuits daily. Rest in peace.

Having only 3 memorable times with her throughout my life, all I can say is my Aunt Janis was the kindest/most loving woman I have ever met. Living distances apart, all I wish now is how I could have seen her more. My heart goes out to her immediate family, we lost someone truly special.

Janis' kind, warm spirit will always be an inspiration and comfort to all those she loved. Bryan and I offer heartfelt condolences to the Bergey and Darville families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful Janis.

Dear Kristjan, we know this has been a difficult time for you, and through it you have been a wonderful role model for 5 young musicians. May you find peace knowing her spirit will live on. Joan Saary, Peter, Calum and Eleri Maes from Junior Jazz A.

Life in the court will not be the same without Janis - kind, beautiful, but wicked at "bite the bag".  
Our sincere condolences.

Janis was an absolutely amazing woman who lived her life by enveloping everyone she met with her charisma and vibrance.  Those who have had the opportunity to spend some time with Janis have been blessed with her nurturing spirit and witnessed her endless devotion to her loved ones.  She treated my children like her own grandchildren and captivated them with her sweet way.  
Janis, you have made an impression during your time on earth. One that will never be forgotten and one that will live on in your children and grandchildren as your legacy of love.
You were taken too soon and we will miss you dearly. It is with heavy heart we say goodbye. xox
Bob, Damian, Michelle, Ben, Kristjan and your families, 
When it hurts to look back and you are too sad to go forward, look beside you and your family and friends will be there.
Much love to you all.

Vik, Sarina, Madeline and Julian Fantin

Kristjan (and family):
I never had the pleasure of meeting your mom, but in my discussions with you and Holly, your devotion, loyalty and love for her was always so firm, so palpable, that it demonstrated what a wonderful person your mother really was.  Our best and sincere condolences in this difficult time.   - Christian and Melissa Huggett

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Brena and Tom Taylor

It is often said that children are a reflection of their parents.  Kristjan, knowing and loving you the way that we do, your Mom must have been a very special, loving, intelligent and amazing lady. Take solace in the fact that she is now at peace, free from pain and that she will eternally be with you in spirit.  Love & hugs, Jeff & Mimi

Michelle and family. We are so greatly saddened to hear of your mothers passing. May you find the strength and support of family and friends to help you get through. May God bless you all,and rest the soul of you beloved mom.  The Ricciuti family

My deepest condolences to the Bergey and Darville Families.  Though my wife and I are on the periphery of her family and friends, Janis always made Heather and I feel such incredible acceptance and warmth in her company.  This was truly the kind of person she was, making all around her feel connected and valued.

This seemed most striking upon visiting her in the hospital or through regular conversation with Kristjan.  She had incredibly personal relationships with all the people that she was meeting throughout her struggle in the hospital and the stories and shared experiences that she (or Kristjan) relayed to us made the environment that she lived in - on and off for a year and a half -  seem to be a safe place, surrounded as she seemed to be in life, by the meaningful connections she made.  I feel blessed to have known her, as I am sure all that met her would agree.

My deepest condolences to your whole family at this very sad event.  My thoughts are with you all.

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the Bergey family.  Janis was an outstanding, one-of-a-kind woman and she will be remembered fondly by all that met her.
My first real memory of Janis was in December of 2007.  The Ketch Harbour Wolves had played a show in Barrie and an unexpected snowstorm had made travel back to Cambridge nearly impossible.  Kristjan offered us all to stay at the Bergery household, and though it was the middle of the night, Janis welcomed all of us with open arms.  She was charistmatic, welcoming and warm, making sure that we all had pillows, blankets, snacks and drinks.  In the morning, she made the group of us a delicious breakfast.  Janis, lovingly, showed us all the mementos and awards that belonged to her children and it was very clear that she was a very very proud mother.  She sheepishly showed me her studio and I was overwhelmed by her talent.
More recently, my husband Liam and I visited Janis in the hospital and her spirit was overwhelmingly inspiring.  She had clearly made fast friends with the hospital staff and the other patients, and was much more interested in talking about the exciting things going on in everyone else's life than dwelling on her own, incredibly difficult struggle.
Janis was a remarkable woman, mother, wife, and friend and will be both missed and always remembered.  Her life is an inspiration to everyone.

Janis will always be remembered as a person who embodied love, clarity, commitment, strength and compassion.  The world was made better through her influence and example. Our hearts, minds and best wishes go out to Bob, Ben, Damian, Kristjan and Michelle and all of their families. 

Janis was truly loved and will be truly missed. 

With love

Joyce, Terry, Mike and Steve

What a loss.  Sincere condolences to all family members.  Words seem terribly inadequate.   

Kristjan,  I will always remember your mother with gratitude and fondness.  After moving to Aurora in 1996 post cancer diagnosis your mother reached out to me making me feel so welcome.  Our involvement with 'THE BAND' and 'SHEP' was our main connection but your mom went out of her way to make me feel included and extended her friendship unconditionally.  A very generous and loving soul.  

All who knew and loved your mother will remember her with fondness.  

Sincerely, 

 Judy Kozak

Thank you Kim for finding a way for me to say goodbye to Janis on June 5th my birthday via a short cell  phone conversation as it meant the world to me and I  never had a better birthday gift in my entire life..from the bottom of my heart..Bob Smith

What a beautiful photo of Janis.I have known Janis and Bob for over 30 years from our days back in Aylmer ,Quebec.What a beautiful family.I remember the first time I saw Janis when Bob introduced her to me and my first thought was Bergey you lucky so and so.She is so beautiful with that Dorothy Hamill haircut. OMG as the kids say today.But as beautiful as she was outside she was even more beautiful inside.If you were Janis`s friend she made you feel like you were her best friend and she was always there for you in good times and bad.She had an incredible sense of humour and though this is a sad time she would want us to celebrate her life as she cherished every day as a gift..She will always own a piece of our hearts.There is a huge void in our world today but she is in heaven with Paul and suffers no more. .love to the entire Bergey and Darville clan..Bob Smith..Stoneham,Mass..

Such a loving, caring, devoted wife and mother.  We are deeply saddened by your loss.
Gary and Alanna

Kristjan and family,

Sincere condolences from me and my immediate family on your loss.  Know that your mother is an a much better place now.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your mom.  Going forward, celebrate the many successes of your mom's life. This will feed her spirit and bring her (and you) joy.

Our love and prayers go out to you and your family. Love rye Asuro and family

Our prayers and support are with you and your family at this time.  Condolences and continued strength at this time of need.  Jonathan & Katherine Azarcon

What a wonderful picture of Janis!  It truly captures her outgoing and optimistic spirit!

As late-comers to the "Court Family", it didn't take long to discover and appreciate Janis' generosity of self and her kindness to all.  She was the epitomy of motherhood, friendship and caregiver.

Our sincere condolences to Bob and their family.  Rest in peace, Janis...

Lynne and Bob Rose

Michelle, It is with great sadness to hear of your mother's passing, our thoughts
and prayers are with you.

Love,
Michael and Annette (Toni) Santeramo

Janis was a blessing on earth. She finally completed her journey on earth and touched many hearts on her way. We are blessed to have met her.

We wanted to offer our love, prayers and support to Bob, Damian, Mich, Ben & Kristjan. Please know that God is caring for you through the hands and hearts of others.



With love,
Jack, Janet, Michael, Mia & Ethan Santeramo

We met as neighbours but soon became family.  And now a part of our family has left too soon.  We love you and miss you.  You will always have a special place in our hearts.

Love Paul,Judy,Jason,Sarah & Emily Bourgard

What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch. We may not understand why Janis left this earth so soon, or why she left before we were ready to say goodbye, but little by little, we begin to remember not that she died, but that she lived. And that her life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. Miss you already Janis.

The photo we submitted was taken two summers ago at our daughter Monica's wedding. A happy memory.

Karen & Steve Skinner

OBITUARY

Janis Bergey

10 July, 1951 – 9 June, 2012

Thompson Funeral Home

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