Gary Bergman

Gary Lee Bergman, 79, of Marion, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025, following a sudden illness.

He was born in Quincy, Illinois, on September 25, 1945, and grew up in Loves Park, Illinois, where he graduated from Harlem High School in 1963. He later graduated from Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin. Gary was a well-rounded athlete in his younger years, competing in baseball, football, basketball, and track. His interest in sports continued throughout his life — watching games with family and fitting in a round of golf when he could.

Gary married Glenna Leuellen on May 11, 1968, at Christ Church Unity in Rockford, Illinois. They renewed their vows on March 23, 1970, at St. James Cathedral in Rockford.

Gary had a creative side and enjoyed drawing, string art, puzzles, and inventing new food combinations at family gatherings. He also had a soft spot for his dachshunds and enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Glenna; granddaughter, Malorie Hults; sister-in-law, Carole; brothers-in-law, John, Frank, and Ronald; and his parents, Monica and Russell.

Gary is survived by his children, Cristy (Chris) Caldwell, Tammy (Sterling) Silver, Bill (Cindy) Bergman, Julie (Matt) Cunningham, and Eric (Becky) Bergman. He leaves behind ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Ron Bergman, Robert Bergman, and Pat Bates.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids. Services will be private for the family, with burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Anamosa.

Gary will be remembered for his humor, creativity, and the time he made for the people and things he cared about.