Michael Brendan Bergin

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Michael Bergin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and well-respected Valley psychiatrist who peacefully passed away on June 21, 2024 at the age of ninety-one.

Michael was born in Ballina, Ireland, on May 16, 1933 to Patrick Bergin and Brigid Ward. His Irish heritage was the cornerstone of his identity. Michael's stories of his childhood in Ireland, shared with warmth and humor, were a source of delight for his family and friends. His early years in Ireland, growing up in the small town of Crossmolina and at Castleknock boarding school were filled with adventure and more than a little mischief.

Despite Michael’s mischievous nature, he excelled academically, had a remarkable memory and was a true Renaissance man. Above all else, he had a desire to understand and help others. This led Michael to study medicine at University College Dublin. In 1958, while an intern at Limerick Regional Hospital, he met the love of his life, Kathleen Murray, who was working as a pediatric nurse at the time. Soon after marrying, they moved to England where they had two children before Michael joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and was transferred to Ottawa.

Five years later and with five children in tow, they then moved to Nova Scotia which was to become their permanent home and where he completed his residency in Psychiatry at Dalhousie University.

Michael eventually left the military as a Lieutenant Colonel so he and his family could remain in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. He set up his private practice in nearby Windsor and was instrumental in establishing the Hants Community Mental Health Clinic.

Michael was not only a well-respected psychiatrist and valued colleague, he was also an avid sportsman. He had a lifelong passion for rugby, salmon fishing and golf. Michael was a proud member at KenWo for three decades. His love for sports was a reflection of his competitive nature, but especially his appreciation for the camaraderie and friendship these activities brought him.

As a father, Michael was a guiding light to his five children, four of whom followed in his footsteps to become physicians. His children served as a great source of pride for him, just as he did for them. Michael was also a cherished grandfather to fourteen grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Michael was best known for his generosity and quick wit, traits that endeared him to all who knew him. Despite the challenges he faced in his later years with dementia, Michael's spirit remained unbroken. His sense of humor was a constant companion, and, even as his memory faded, his ability and desire to bring joy and laughter to those around him never waned.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, who was by his side through every moment of their 65 years together, his five children: Fiona Bergin (Paul Festeryga), Ailish McIntyre (Don McIntyre), Siobhan Bergin (Philip Fraser), Patrick Bergin (Janet Hurley), Deirdre Bergin (Erik Ostling), his fourteen grandchildren: Patrick, Brendan and Deirdre Festeryga; Maggie, Brigitte , and Evan McIntyre; Michael, Niamh and Eamon Fraser; Kathleen, Ailish and Siobhan Bergin; and Sean and Meg Ostling, his siblings: Ailish (Bergin) Treacy, Margaret (Bergin) Rudolph, and Breda (Bergin) Dunning. He was pre-deceased by three siblings: Triona Bergin, Sean Bergin, and Patrick Bergin.

As we say good-bye to our much-loved husband, father and grandfather, we are comforted by the thought of him in a place where he can once again delight in stories and memories of his beloved Ireland with all those who have passed before him and resume his golf foursome. If asked how he is doing in heaven, we know he would reply, with his familiar impish grin, "fair to middlin' with bright periods, like the weather in Dublin".

A mass will be held on Tuesday, August 6th at 11 am at St. Agnes Church. A reception will follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to any charity of your choice.

Michael’s family would like to thank all his family physicians who cared for him over the years, VON and the many wonderful caregivers from Parkwood who allowed him to remain at home with his beloved Kathleen, Dr. David Bell, his residents and the nursing staff on 5B Urology at the VG, Dr. Spence (General Surgery) and his wonderful residents, and Dr. General and Shannon (Palliative Care). They all provided our dad with compassionate care and allowed him to have a peaceful death. Our family cannot thank you enough for that.