Dale H. Bergquist

Harold Dale Bergquist was born June 2, 1918 in Shickley, Nebraska.As a boy he began growing poppies- a passion inspired him to start his own nursery business. He fought in WWII, serving as a sergeant in the Army and fighting in the historic Battle of the bulge. Bergquist was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery and meritorious service. After the war he came to California on Maneuvers. Dale believed in doing what you loved, so in 1946 he launched Green Thumb Nursery in Canoga Park, sharing his passion for plants and gardening with the San Fernando valley. Dale Also loved roses, golf travel and Boy Scouts. Always generous, he was a charter member of the Rotary Club, of Canoga Park serving as their President in 1964. The Rotary helped find funding to build the Northridge Hospital. He had been married to Verna Mae Bergquist for 50 years before her passing in 1992. Dale peacefully passed away January 5, 2010, in West Hills, he was 91.He is survived by his four children: Bud Bergquist, Nancy Bergquist, Steve Bergquist, and Suzye Turori. He was the treasured grandfather of 11 grandchildren ( Julie Underwood, Aimee Shirley, Mariesa, Maegan, Scott and Kelly Bergquist, Melodee, Dale , John, Christopher and Jennifer Turori) and 3 great-grandchildren ( Courtney Webber, James Underwood, and Kaiya Shirley). Married to Lila in 1994, she survives him at their family home. Arrangements under the direction of Gates, Kingsley & Gates Praiswater Mortuary, Canoga Park, CA.