George J. Bergeron 85, a lifelong resident of Keene, NH, died Thursday, June 26, 2014 at Langdon Place of Keene following a brief illness.
He was born in Keene, NH, August 6, 1928, the son of Napoleon George and Catherine (Fleming) Bergeron. He attended local schools and was a 1946 graduate of Keene High School.
He served from 1946 until 1948 in the 21st Regiment 24th division of the U.S. Army and participated in the occupation of Japan.
Following his military obligation, Mr. Bergeron received a Bachelor Degree in Education in 1952 from Keene State College, and completed his Master's Degree from Keene State in 1957. He continued his studies at Boston University, the University of New Hampshire at Durham, and was working on his doctorate at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
He began his career in education in 1952 as a teaching principal with the Bartlett Elementary School in Goffstown, NH. In 1955, he returned to teach in Keene at the Wheelock Elementary School, and in 1957 he became principal of the school, a position he held until 1989. He was also an adjunct professor at Keene State College.
As an accomplished educator and principal, Mr. Bergeron received the Keene State College Medallion Award, the Keene State College Alumni Award, and was honored with the Wheelock School's library being named the "George J. Bergeron Library". Under his leadership, his staff received awards from the National Council of PTA's, the NH Council of Better Schools and from the Sears Foundation.
He was also a life member of the National Association of Laboratory Schools and a life member of the American Legion Gordon Bissell Keene Post #4 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #799 of Keene. Mr. Bergeron served as past President of the New Hampshire Elementary School Principals, a life member of the National and New Hampshire PTA's and a life member of the Association of School Principals. He was also a member of the City of Keene Planning Board, a lifetime parishioner of St. Bernard Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 819 of St. Bernard Church, Keene.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Priscilla M. (Devoid) Bergeron of Keene; four sons, David Bergeron and his wife, Sheilagh, of Northfield, NH, Thomas Bergeron and his wife, Leslie, of Mesa, AZ, James Bergeron and his wife, Cindy, of Penacook, NH, Richard Bergeron and his wife, Jodie, of Indianapolis, IN; a daughter, Judy Giguere and her husband, Steven, of Keene; eight grandchildren, Shayna Bergeron, Molly Riendeau, Abigail Bergeron, Desarae Bergeron, Emily Bergeron, Julia Bergeron, Evan Bergeron, Lucas Bergeron; a sister, Kathleen MacDonald of Manchester, CT; sister-in-law, Lorraine Trombley, of Keene, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister, Phyllis Rondeau.
A memorial mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Monday, July 7, 2014 at 10:00AM in St. Bernard Church, 185 Main Street, Keene. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Main Street, Keene. There are no public calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mr. Bergeron's memory to the Castle Center, 312 Marlboro Street, Keene, NH 03431, or to the Alzheimer's Association, Mass. and New Hampshire Chapter, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472.
The Foley Funeral Home, 49 Court Street, Keene, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
July 21, 2014
Jackie (Moore) Eno
I remember Mr. Bergeron at Wheelock School in the 70s when I was a student there. I really thought he was a great guy. He really cared about the school, staff and the students. He led by example, and I attribute many of my life's successes to my years at Wheelock. Rest in peace Mr. Bergeron.
July 15, 2014
jane Ladam
Jane Ladam, daughter of Harold and Marie Rosanna would like to offer her condolences to the family
July 6, 2014
Sharyn D'Eon
Priscilla,
You and the family are in our prayers. George was a very special man. I remember him as Principal at Wheelock School but most of all I remember him working in the yard at home. You are very special neighbors. Please remember the impact he had shaping so many lives. His legacy will live forever!
The D'Eon's
July 5, 2014
Dear Priscilla and family,
I'm saddened at your loss, and know that a lifetime of memories somehow carry you on. Know that you are in my thoughts.
Love,
Claire Aubuchon and family
July 3, 2014
DeDe (Wright) Bernier-Belletete
Mrs, Bergeron, Judy, David, Tom, Jim and Rich,
I have so many memories of the intire family. I'm so sorry for your loss. All of you have been in my thoughts and prayers. He was a wonderful man and will be missed by those whose lives he touched. Love DeDe
July 2, 2014
Jim Bergeron
Dad,
All I can think about are all of our awesome memories. You are my guiding light. You and Mom taught us love and respect for all. You are my hero. I love and miss you so much.
Your son,
Jim
July 2, 2014
kimberly Rumrill
Dear Judy,
Thinking of you and sending prayers of peace. He was such a great guy! Many fond memories of Wheelock school and his smile. Love Kim
July 2, 2014
Lou Smith
So sorry for your loss Judy he was a wonderfull man. And it was my pleasure to know him. I will never forget that smile.
July 2, 2014
Helen Young
Dear Judy and Family
I am so very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all.
July 2, 2014
Catherine Pinard
Judy and family,My thoughts and prayers are with you. As I have said and will say it again, "you are a good daughter" Love you my dear friend.
Kay & Stephen Pinard
July 2, 2014
Bill Campbell
Mr Bergeron was a great principal at Wheelock School
July 2, 2014
Tracy Pelkey
Judy and Family
Your father will be greatly missed, forever cherished and always remembered.
Tracy
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