Robert Bergman

It is with heavy hearts and sadness beyond description that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Robert (Bob) George Bergman Jr., age 77, on November 7, 2025. Bob passed peacefully, surrounded by his family.

Born on November 10, 1947, in Kenora, Ontario, to Robert and Jacqueline Bergman, Bob lived a life full of love, curiosity, and craftsmanship. A graduate of George Brown College at the top of his class and winning the 1972 Toronto Construction Award, he attained his General Carpenter trade qualification in 1972. Bob built a respected career as a carpenter and project manager, contributing his skill and leadership to Bergman and Nelson Ltd which later became Bergman Builders, Linnil Construction, Ontario Realty Corporation, and lastly, Jarnel Contracting. Known for his calm, steady presence on the job site, Bob took great pride in his work - valued for his knowledge, precision, problem-solving, organizational skills and the quiet confidence that made him a trusted colleague and valued mentor.

Bob was a humble, honest and kind-hearted man who was always there when family or friends needed a hand. Generous with his time and knowledge, he was quick to offer help and never expected anything in return. His patience, integrity, and dedication left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working or spending time alongside him.

Known to his closest friends and fishing buddies as “Swede,” Bob enjoyed numerous fishing trips filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the kind of shenanigans that become lifelong stories. Whether it was early mornings on calm waters, swapping stories around a campfire while sharing a few beer, those moments reflected the best of who he was - loyal, passionate and full of quiet joy. His friendships spanned decades, built on shared adventures, respect, happy memories, and an unspoken understanding that time spent together was time well spent.

In his free time, Bob loved fishing, sitting by the lake, and spending time with his family. He loved the outdoors and the beauty it provided. He loved being at home. To him, there was no better place. He always had a project on the go, whether it was a renovation, repair, or improvement, both at home or for others, or creating “granite ganders” with Fran in his beloved shop. He shared countless memories of Gibi Lake and Lake of the Woods, his home and first love.

Bob will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Frances (Fran); his children, Ingred (Tom), Kristin (Shawn), Robert (Brittney), and Jaye (Pamela); and his grandchildren, Craig (Kelsey), Kyle (Maddie), Emma, Julian, James, Layne, Hudson, Chloe, Isabelle, and Ruby.

He is also survived by his brothers Jim (Wendy), Doug (Yvette), and Guy (Cindy), and sisters Colleen and Jacqui (Karol), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Jacqueline, in-laws Stanley and Mary Ostrowski, sister-in-law Elaine Bergman and brother-in-law Bob Martz.

Those who knew Bob will remember his quiet strength, quick humour, and the way you could always count on him when you needed him. His legacy of love, generosity, and craftsmanship will live on in the many hearts he touched.

Our family would like to extend sincere and heartfelt thanks to Emergency Dispatch, Paramedics, Emergency physicians and nurses, ICU nurses, and Dr. Jean-Marc Rizk at Lake of the Woods District Hospital for the kindness, respect, compassion, and care shown to Bob and our family. Donations, if desired, may be made to a charity of your choice.

A celebration of Bob’s life is planned for the summer of 2026, to be announced at a later date.

Bob, you will be forever loved, forever missed, forever remembered.