John R. Bergin III of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away on October 19, 2024. He was the son of John R Bergin II and Gladys (Armstrong) Bergin. Born in Chicago in 1938, he moved to Lowell soon after and grew up near the banks of the Flat River. He attended Lowell High School, lettering in three sports. He went on to Grand Rapids Junior College, then graduated from Michigan State University where he was lucky enough to meet his wife, Susan. After graduating from MSU, he went on to receive a master’s degree from Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
John was a teacher. He taught science in the Northview School system for 38 years. He also coached high school girls’ tennis at Northview.
After retiring from teaching, John spent many years using his woodworking skills as a volunteer at Home Repair Services. He was also a dedicated benefactor of the Central Woodlands Elementary School Library in Ada. For many years he gained strength from AA meetings at St. Stephens in Grand Rapids.
He is survived by his wife Susan (Wisby) Bergin; his daughter Jennifer Bergin Whisner and son-in-law Chris Whisner; and his daughter Maggie Bergin and son-in-law John Aubin. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Aaron Whisner and Zachary Whisner.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to Home Repair Services. A private service will be held at a later date.
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We have lost another classmate from the class of 1956.