Mary Helen (Biermann) Bergh

Mary Helen Biermann Bergh, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully with her husband by her side on March 28th. Mary's life was one of love, service, and passion for her family, friends and community.

Born to Francis and Lucia Mannas, Mary's early life was marked by loss and love. Lucia passed away shortly after Mary's birth, and she was raised and later adopted by her uncle and aunt, Dr. A. H. and Helen Biermann. From these beginnings, Mary's life blossomed into one of deep connection and devotion.

After completing nursing school, Mary married Bob, the love of her life for nearly 68 years and together they became a team. They embarked on the journey of raising four children and managing the farm in Western Kansas. Amidst the joys and challenges of parenthood, Mary remained deeply involved in her faith community, teaching CCD and serving as a 4-H leader. Her dedication and warmth touched the lives of many.

Mary was a lifelong learner, embracing new skills and hobbies with passion and enthusiasm. From tole painting to knitting, sewing to wheat weaving, scrap booking to story writing, her creativity knew no bounds. Her family cherishes the stories and projects she lovingly created over the years. Her legacy lives on through her cook books of family and traditional Norwegian recipes.

Square dancing held a special place in Mary and Bob's hearts, and they devoted themselves to their square dance club, serving in various leadership roles over the years. Many close friendships remain with former club members.

Though Mary worked as a nurse at times, her true calling and greatest joys were her family and friends. She loved her family and they loved her. Christmas and July 4th were the 2 holidays that brought the entire family together. 

Mary was very welcoming to anyone she met, very kind and described as one of the nicest people. Wherever Mary went, she developed close friends that lasted throughout the years.  She was loved by all and will be greatly missed.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Bob Bergh, her loving sons Dr. James (Carole) Bergh, William (Shelli) Bergh, and Dave (Amanda) Bergh, and her dear daughter, Susan Bergh. She leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, whose lives she enriched with her love and wisdom.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, brother, Francis Mannas, and sister, Angela Rowley.

A recitation of the Rosary will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m., both at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Garden Plain, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Tanganyika Wildlife Park or Music Theater of Wichita.

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