Patrick Bergen

Published 2:52 pm Friday, April 25, 2025

Patrick “Pat” Raymond Bergen, 82, of Albert Lea, MN passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at his home surrounded by family. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services in Albert Lea with a visitation one hour prior.

Patrick Bergen

Pat was born on July 24, 1942, at Naeve Hospital in Albert Lea, MN. He was the youngest of four children born to John and Eileen (Duffy) Bergen. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Theodore Catholic Church. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1960. He served in the United States Navy from 1961-1964. He then attended Mankato State College and graduated with a business degree in 1972.

On September 8, 1972, Pat married Nancy Vandersnick at St. Theodore Catholic Church. They shared 53 years together. To this union two daughters were born, Sara and Jill. Later in life, he and Nancy were blessed with four grandchildren whom he loved dearly. He truly cherished the time he spent with each of them.

Pat worked at K-Mart as an assistant manager in Mason City, Iowa for two years. In 1974, he went to work for the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier in Albert Lea. He stayed with them until his retirement in 2004 after 30+ years of service. He enjoyed meeting all of the people on his route. Many referred to him as he whistling mailman as he often could be heard whistling while he delivered mail.

Pat was a member of St. Theodore Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion. In his retirement, he enjoyed getting together with his neighbors and friends, especially his dear friend Lynn Bartness. You could often find a group sitting in the garage or in the driveway where all were welcome.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eileen Bergen; sisters, Marguerite Donovan (Bergen) and Rita Bergen; brother, Jack Bergen; brothers-in-law, Tom Donovan and Glen Fuller; mother and father-in-law, Don and Dorothy Vandersnick; and granddaughter, Chloe Dickrell.

Pat was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He will be missed by those who survive him. His wife Nancy; daughter, Sara Colby (Jeff Stevens) and grandchildren Brandon and Aly of Albert Lea, MN; daughter, Jill Dickrell (Chris) and grandchildren Ashlyn and Taylor of Otsego, MN. Also surviving are niece Mary Quinlivan (Mike); brother and sister-in-law, Terry and Peggy Vandersnick; sister-in-law, Ann Fuller; many nieces and nephews; and grand-dogs Mia and Louie.