Jeanette "Jean" Berge

Jeanette “Jean” Berge, age 96, of Sioux Falls, formerly of Baltic, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, surrounded by love and the memories of a life well lived. A time to greet the family will begin at 12:30 PM Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Halladay-Peterson Chapel at Dow Rummel in Sioux Falls, with a prayer service beginning at 1:30 PM. Private interment will be in the Dell Rapids Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Ava’s House or Dow Rummel, designated in memory of Jean Berge.

Jeanette was born on July 1, 1929, to Freeman and Mildred (Flood) Bowles. She grew up in Dell Rapids, where she formed lifelong friendships and strong roots in her community. She graduated from Dell Rapids High School and later attended Nettleton College. On August 29, 1949, she married Charles “Chuck” Berge in Dell Rapids.

Jean and Chuck made their home in Dell Rapids before moving to Baltic in 1964. Jean worked for 43 years as the administrative assistant to the president of John Morrell, a role she embraced with dedication, professionalism, and quiet pride.

Together, Jean and Chuck enjoyed spending their summers in Baltic and winters in Brownsville, Texas, where days were filled with golf, laughter, and treasured time with friends. Jean loved sports and rarely missed the opportunity to cheer on her favorite teams or follow a game. She carried herself with grace, reflecting her timeless sense of style and confidence. Independent and strong-willed, she approached life with resilience while maintaining a warm and welcoming presence.

Jean found joy in life’s simple pleasures — tending flowers and plants, playing bridge with friends, and staying active. She was a member of Eastern Star, Baltic TOPS, and the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids, where her faith and friendships remained an important part of her life.

After Chuck’s passing, Jean continued to live independently in Baltic before moving to Dow Rummel in Sioux Falls in 2021. Throughout every chapter of her life, her greatest joy was her family and friends. She deeply cherished time spent with her daughter, son-in-law, granddaughters, and great-grandchildren, offering wisdom and encouragement that will continue to shape their lives for years to come.

Survivors include her daughter, Deb (Steve) Gunderson, Sioux Falls; granddaughters, Angie (Jon) Bosma, Bennington, NE, and Joy (Cory) Mohling, Wessington Springs; great-grandchildren, Cale Mohling, Cade Mohling, Logan Mohling, and Brooke Mohling; sister, Jan Johnson, Garretson; sister-in-law, Carol Bowles, Denver, CO; and many other relatives and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Chuck” Lester Berge (June 5, 2005); her parents, Freeman and Mildred; stepfather, Walter Potas; sister, JoAnn Park; and brother, Jerry Bowles.

Jean will be remembered for her independence, quiet strength and love for family and friends. Her steady presence, fun spirit, and ability to enjoy life’s simple moments leave a lasting legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.