Philip Bergerson

Phil Bergerson, husband, father, grandpa, and friend, was killed unexpectedly in a tragic automobile accident near Duluth, Minnesota, on July 11th, 2015. Phil was 63 years old. God called him home, and he is at peace.

Phil was born in Two Harbors, Minnesota, in 1952. He was the second son of David and Lillian Bergerson. He graduated from Two Harbors High School in 1970, the University of Minnesota-Duluth with a Bachelor of Accounting degree in 1975. Phil later received an MBA and CPA certification. He worked at Allete/Minnesota Power for 36 years and retired in 2008. Phil had previously worked at Broeker Henderson in Duluth, where he met his wife of 35 years, Judy. They were married in 1980. In 1982 and 1984, he was blessed with two beautiful children, whom he adored.

Phil was a dedicated, wonderful father and husband. He loved all things sports, especially running and basketball. Whenever he could, he took saunas at Highland Lake with his dad and brothers. Beloved dog Stuart got a three-mile walk every night on the nearest golf course or trail. Phil loved the outdoors, especially the woods and the beach.

After his retirement in 2008, Phil and Judy began building their dream cabin from the ground up on the Whiteface Reservoir. They also recently bought a new home in Florida to enjoy their winters in the sunshine.

Phil is survived by his parents; his wife, Judy; his daughter, Lauren (Jeff) Wright; son Michael; his grandchildren, Ben and Tim; and his brothers Gary (Karen) and Terry; as well as many nieces; nephews; aunts and uncles; cousins; and in-laws. He is pre-deceased by his brother Paul.

The family deeply appreciates your thoughts and prayers. A private service is planned. Phil's life will be memorialized by dedicating a bench in Bonita Bay along the walking paths he so loved, "Phil's Bench in Bonita Bay," 2303 South Branch Trail, Makinen, MN 55763. Nothing can separate us from God's love, and Phil is not on this journey alone. Arrangements are being handled by Dougherty Funeral Home.