Karl Leslie Bergstrand

1944 - 2024

Karl Leslie Bergstrand
June 22, 1944 - December 19, 2024

Karl was born in New Westminster, BC, in 1944 and grew up on a five-acre hobby farm in North Surrey. From an early age, he discovered his love for horses and the thrill of Jim Canna events, a passion that would shape much of his life. In 1960, he moved to Sunhill Ranch north of Kamloops in Heffley Creek, BC, with his family. It was here that Karl embraced the cowboy life, working for local ranchers, participating in rodeos across BC, and hauling livestock with his brother Eric.

In the Kamloops area, while hauling cattle with his brother Eric, they stopped for a coffee and a burger at favourite spot where local ranchers and farmer frequented, Karl ending up getting more than that meeting the love of his life, Sandi. Their connection was immediate and profound, leading to their marriage on July 18, 1969. With an open heart, Karl became a devoted father to Vonne and Shawn, raising them with love and guiding them into the men they are today. He built their first family home in Heffley Creek, all while working tirelessly as a Diamond Driller across B.C and Ontario.

Karl's adventurous spirit led he and Sandi to the Sunshine Coast, where they embraced the call of the sea. Their love for boating and fishing took them along the coast in their beloved tugboat, camping on remote beaches and enjoying countless weenie roasts by the fire. Karl's work in the logging industry allowed him to explore the coast further, hauling logs and making friends wherever he went. His infectious smile and ability to engage with anyone brightened the days of all who crossed his path.

In his later years, Karl and Sandi semi-retired to Texada Island before eventually returning to Kamloops to be closer to family. Throughout his life, Karl's greatest pride was his family. His love for his wife Sandi, his sons Vonne (Diane) and Shawn (Sheri), his grandchildren Raelyn, Lee, and Serena, and his siblings Donna and Eric was boundless. He cherished every moment spent with them and leaves behind a legacy of love and unity. Predeceased by his loving parents, Gunnar and Stella Bergstrand.

Karl's stories from his cowboy years to his adventures on the sea will forever resonate in our hearts. His kindness, caring nature, and unwavering dedication to those he loved are qualities that will continue to inspire us. Though there will be no formal service, at Karl's request, we hold dear the memories of his laughter and his ability to connect with others.

As we bid farewell to Karl, let us find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in each of us. Let us remember the joy he brought into our lives and carry forward the lessons he taught us. In the words of an old cowboy saying, "The trail is long, but the heart is strong." May we all find strength in our hearts as we navigate the path ahead, forever grateful for the time we shared with Karl.

In closing, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the 8th-floor medical staff at the Kamloops Royal Inland Hospital for their compassionate care. Karl's journey may have ended, but his spirit will forever sail the seas he loved, and his memory will remain an anchor in our hearts.

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