James A. Bergstresser

GORHAM - James A. Bergstresser, 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving children after a brief illness.

Born the youngest of seven to Allen and Florence (Stryker) Bergstresser, Jim grew up in a close-knit family, learning early the value of hard work and loyalty. He was predeceased by his first wife, Alice L. (Decker) Bergstresser; his second wife, Bonnie (Stetzel) Bergstresser; siblings Pauline "Polly" Domm, William "Bill" Bergstresser, Donald Bergstresser, Mary Bacon, Robert "Bob" Bergstresser, and baby Kenneth "Skippy" Bergstresser.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Christa (Michael) Busby; son, Eric (Dawn) Bergstresser; stepson, Terry Phillips; grandchildren, Maryalice and Ella Busby, Owen and Jack Bergstresser, and Mark, Eric, Meaghan, and Matthew Phillips; his sister-in-law, Mildred "Millie" Bergstresser and brother-in-law, John (Peggy) Stetzel.

Jim spent his early years working on local farms, especially enjoying his time with Ed Hansen, before joining his brother Bob at Bob Equipment in Stanley as parts manager. Well known throughout the agricultural community, Jim was always the first to lend a hand to a farmer in need. Whether it was offering mechanical know-how, showing up in a pinch, or just being a reliable friend, his willingness to help others made a lasting impact in the region's farming circles. Later, he worked in maintenance at Geneva General Hospital, where he was known for his dependability and hard work.

In retirement, Jim and Bonnie enjoyed winters in Bradenton, Florida, at Sugar Creek Estates, where he quickly became the park handyman and an active member of the board. He made many close friendships there, especially among those who shared his love for playing cards. Summers in New York included caretaking responsibilities at Bitely Cemetery and Number 9 Cemetery, where he took pride in maintaining the grounds. He and Bonnie could also be found grabbing an ice cream cone most any afternoon at a local ice cream stand.

A devoted husband and father, Jim tirelessly cared for his wife Alice during her illness while raising two active children-never missing a sporting event, concert, or moment of pride. His greatest joy was his family, especially his children and grandchildren, and he never met a stranger who didn't learn about them within five minutes. He was fueled by coffee, conversation, and a seemingly endless kindness-always ready to lend a hand, a story, or even the shirt off his back.

Regularly found at the Hall Diner or Old Mill Restaurant in Gorham, Jim was as much a fixture as the coffee pots, and the staff there treated him like family. The world is a little dimmer without his infectious spirit, and Folgers stock may never be the same.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Perkins-Ames Funeral Home, 2583 E, Main St., Gorham, where a funeral service will be held Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.. Burial will be in Gorham Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Midlakes FFA Chapter, 1490 State Route 488, Clifton Springs, N.Y. 14432 – Jim was a member and took great pride in seeing his grandchildren carry on that legacy.