John Bergan

John Widener Bergan

John W. Bergan, 54, known to many as "JB", died April 30, 2017, in San Francisco, of a heart attack. Born in Chicago to Dr. John J. and Carolyn Bergan, he was educated at Francis W. Parker School and Milton Academy, graduating from Northwestern University with a bachelor's degree in radio, TV and film. He was a loyal member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Sailboat racing was important and he competed successfully in a variety of classes and on several Mackinac races. Following graduation, he worked in sales support for Business Week in New York before moving to San Francisco. An avid follower of the Grateful Dead, he began a new career as sales and marketing director for Grateful Graphics and Not Fade Away/Sundog Productions. He edited and widely distributed a Grateful Dead newsletter. He shared his view of the Golden Gate Bridge with regular postings to a wide group of friends. He followed pop culture and quoted Homer Simpson's philosophy, delighting friends and family. John brought joy and love to everyone. He is survived by two sisters (Betsy Bergan Altman Barrett and Margaret Bergan Davis), two nieces, a nephew, and a grandniece. A celebration of his life will be held for close friends in San Francisco on May 9. Please consider a memorial contribution to KPFA.org.