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Thomas F. Bergmann
Thomas F. Bergmann
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Thomas Bergmann Obituary
After a long battle with lung disease, Tom passed away peacefully while his devoted wife of 56 years, Eve (Bernoth), and daughter Jenna were by his side. He is preceded in death by his mother, June, and father, Fred. He was a loving grandfather to Evan and Charlotte, and brother to Sue McShane (Bill), as well as his nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Tom was born in Oak Park, Illinois, and graduated from Northern Illinois University. He married his high school sweetheart and became an elementary school teacher. After they welcomed their daughter, Tom made a career change and graduated from National College of Chiropractic. They relocated to Melbourne, Australia to embark on a new adventure when he was offered a position at the Preston Institute of Technology. Eventually the family settled in Minnesota, where Tom was not only an educator, but he was a clinician, journal editor, published author, and international lecturer. He retired with emeritus status from Northwestern Health Sciences University after a 32-year career.
Tom loved teaching and inspiring students, painting with watercolors, happy hour, playing games with his family, and growing complex vegetable gardens.
He wanted to be remembered for being a good, kind, and caring man and hoped his generous spirit would be released into the universe. He will be missed deeply by many.
A private service will be held for family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bill Erickson
December 19, 2024
I have just learned of Tom´s passing. I am so sorry to hear of this loss and pass on my sympathies to Eve and the family. I have great memories of our time at NCC where we met. Tom was a great person and friend. He will most certainly be missed! Bill and Babs Erickson
Karen Louise Johnson
December 7, 2024
I actually Facebook messengered Mr. Bergmann in April, though he probably rarely, if ever, did much with Facebook. I'm certain he didn't see my message, so I'm putting it here as well. He was a great teacher! So sorry about his passing, but very glad he did so many cool things in his lifetime. Here's what I sent:
"Came across a class photo that made me smile. Doubt you will see this, but just in case, I was a student of yours in 1973/74 at Fairwood School. My brother Dave Joens is now the Director of Archives for the State of Illinois (he had you as a 6th grader the year before; I was a 5th grader in your combined 5/6 class). To this day I remember some of your fun and educational class projects and your heavy emphasis on science (before STEM was a thing). We toured the Chiropractic College (my 1st corpse), did a paper mache puppet show on The Time Machine, and created a mini town. You were an awesome elementary teacher though I don't think you did it long because your chiropractic college pursuits led you elsewhere. Thanks for being a great educator back in the day!"
Kaizen Hummer
October 12, 2024
My first memory of Tom was when my wife and I shared a meal through our fellowship/ church as part of a fund raiser for the church. He was such a quiet and unobtrusive presence. It automatically felt safe and easy to be near him. Since then, we've seen that this 1st impression was always true. A gentle soul, kind and generous. I will always cherish the tie he gave me as a gift. My first ever gift like that. He will be missed and we welcome his call energy into the universe.
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Peggy Henrikson
October 10, 2024
Tom and Eve attended the same church as my husband and I, and we enjoyed their company. He was a spiritual man and a deep thinker. He was more reserved than his vivacious wife Eve, and they balanced each other well. As he wished, we will remember him as a good, kind, and caring man. Condolences to Eve and Tom's family. Hugs to you, Eve!
Peggy and John Henrikson
Lindsay Daniels D.C
October 10, 2024
I just wanted to share some of the memories me and some colleagues had of Dr. Bergmann.
Thanks for sharing. I often think of snatching the quarter to be quick with adjusting.
Oh man, I learned so much from him ... and enjoyed a cocktail or two at some of the nearby watering holes Thank you for sharing.
Oh. I learned so much from him. Sorry to hear of his passing. He was a great instructor.
Dr. Bergmann and I shared the same size hands. He once told me they were just the right size for adjusting as they could reach places big hands could not:). He will be missed! Sending love to his family.
He was one of my favorites
I remember a good Canadian club party (I think thats what it was) where we all were appreciating cheese and wine.
RIP Dr. Bergmann.
Katie BurnsRyan
October 9, 2024
Dr Bergmann was a wonderful mentor and used his sense of humor to diffuse even the most anxious first time adjusters. In tri 3 I gave my first cervical (neck) adjustment to a classmate under Dr Bergman´s watchful eye. It was a success and I was so excited I immediately dropped her head to which Dr Bergmann leaned forward and said "good adjustment, just don´t drop the head the next time". I am proud to say that 22 years later I have not dropped another patients head!
Katie (KBR)
Vivi-Ann Fischer
October 9, 2024
Tom was an extraordinary manual technique instructor with his calm and knowledgeable approach to instructing students. Looking back I am particularly appreciative that he introduced us to the great chiropractic researchers, Haldeman, Janse, Triano and Cassidy to name a few. He was instrumental in bringing evidence based practice forward in the chiropractic profession.
Dr Joseph S Ferezy
October 9, 2024
Tom was a true gentleman, and good friend. Loyal and kind. I am sorry we lost touch over the last few years. We started a non-profit organization (University Chiropractic Education and Research Foundation - UCERF) and lectured together for almost 30 years. I was planning on contacting him when I am back in MN this December. It saddens me deeply to know I will not see him again.
Krystle Wall
October 9, 2024
Dr. Bergmann was a wonderful teacher and mentor. Without him, I never would have mastered the proper "hug" (anterior adjustment.) So many great memories and he made such an impact for the chiropractic profession. Much love and prayers for his family.
Renee Broughten
October 9, 2024
So many wonderful memories of Tom as my teacher, colleague, and friend. Wishing peace to Eve, Jenna, and family.
Doreen Cordova
October 8, 2024
Tom and Eve became my neighbors 9 years ago when I moved two house down from them. We had so many laughs and good times soaking up the sun. I loved seeing Tom sitting outside enjoying his cocktail. Tom and Eve played scrabble every evening while sipping cocktails and having appetizers. One of my favorite memories of Tom was his 70th birthday party. He wanted a magician to perform for his birthday. Eve granted his wish and the neighbors, family, and friends came to celebrate Tom and enjoy all of the magical moments. Tom and Eve loved to indulge each other and make their dreams come true. I love their stories and their company. Tom, you will always be remembered as a gentle soul who loved your family endlessly. You were kind, generous, and funny. You were a gentle giant and my life was enhanced when I moved on your block. So many memories. Too many to list here. You will be forever missed. Thank you for your friendship. Love, Doreen
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