“Coach” Paul's Memory Wall
We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of “Coach” Paul here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Some of my favorite memories of growing up were the summer days when my dad and mom would drive me, my little brother and sister up to Michigan to spend time at Aunt Linda and Uncle Paul’s house. The smell of pipe tobacco, the sound of a game on the TV, all the laughter from the aunts, uncles and cousins as they played cards, kids running around everywhere inside and outside. And always right in the middle of the madness was Uncle Paul, just beaming ear to ear to have everyone in his family together. I’ll cherish the memories of all those family parties and Uncle Paul’s incredible impact on everyone he knew. My sincerest condolences to everyone in the immediate and extended Bergan family for your great loss, he will be missed by so many.
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Johnny Miller & Family
December 9th, 2023 at 9:23pm
I had the wonderful pleasure of being Paul & Linda's neighbor for 32 years. I got to watch the kids grow up as did they watch me grow up. So saddened, my condolences.🍀🏈!
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Kim Scott
December 9th, 2023 at 12:05pm
I remember Paul. Always smiling, so kind. I always wondered how he got his shirts to fit him with all those muscles, and he never split his shirt! Berrien RESA will not be the same.
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Pam Montgomery
December 8th, 2023 at 7:03pm
Coach inspired so many people. He brought his best always and inspired you to do the same. When I think about all the young lives he touched and how those people grew up To be parents, taking some of Paul’s lessons and applying them with their children. The ripples are far greater than I can grasp. I am so thankful that our paths crossed.
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Becky
December 8th, 2023 at 12:57pm
My sincere condolences to the entire Bergan family. Paul was a giant with his passion for CTE statewide. His positive influence was felt by so many who believed in his work. Paul was responsible for my relocation to Berrien County and for that I am thankful. The guy also knew how to put on a mean tailgate! Rest in peace Paul, we will miss you!
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John Berlin
December 6th, 2023 at 7:05pm
I had the privilege of working with Paul at Berrien RESA for a short time but I had known and worked with him along with other Berrien Co. school superintendents for many years prior. Paul was the "father" of Career Technical Education (CTE) in Berrien County. His vision and leadership to create and coordinate CTE programs among school districts for the benefit of all Berrien Co. students was amazing. He was truly one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic educators that I have ever worked with. His legacy will live on. Thank you, Paul.
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Dr. Kevin Ivers
December 6th, 2023 at 9:29am
Oh, the years of laughter I had the pleasure of sharing with the bigger than life character known affectionately as Paul. Bigger than Life as he was completely full of it (Life and Love, that is), Paul was an incredible educator. I was merely an employee of LMC who promoted higher education and CTE while he was Mr. CTE in Berrien County. He truly cared about the students and the education of those in the area, understanding what it meant to continue learning and growing. I eventually moved on from higher ed to pursue other passions but never forgot the impact Paul had on our programs or our community. A truly great human being, Paul will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with with his beloved family and the friends who will miss Coach.
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Denise Martin
December 6th, 2023 at 6:05am
We recall the first time we officially met Paul Bergan aka Coach. We were at Quarterdeck Resort in Venice Florida for a pot luck gathering. Coach brought a great New Orleans Crawfish Boiler, which was amazing. As we spoke, we quickly new Coach was a very special person. He was quiet and very humble about his life time achievements. His dedication to swim and walk every day, regardless of weather, was second to no-one. Coach would have his pipe and refreshment and discuss topics about everything. He did have a few rules that we recall. The number one was what he referred to as the 10 foot rule, “10 feet from the refrigerator, 10 feet from the television and 10 feet from the bathroom. His insight on so many things was again amazing. Coach, your friendship and wisdom will be missed by many. Now you can rest and spend eternity with your Linda, God Bless Rob Gross and Darlene Podpolucki
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Rob Gross
December 4th, 2023 at 8:20pm
I just learned of Paul’s passing. I was a teacher at BHHS from 1975-78 and I fondly remember Coach Paul and his lovely wife Linda. My deepest condolences to his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and siblings Tim and Kate.
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Beverly Sherman Edwards
December 4th, 2023 at 4:14pm
My many years of working with Paul at the Berrien Springs Intermediate School District (now RESA) left me with such good memories of Paul. His infectious smile and laugh could always make me smile. I’m glad I had him in my life.
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Leona Pitcher
December 2nd, 2023 at 8:35am
Coach P. Bergan will always be remembered from a student at Benton Harbor High. Coach made sure that you did right as an athlete that had great potential. Thank you for always being a strict teacher and mentor.
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Jackson
December 2nd, 2023 at 12:50am
Coach will never be forgotten & will truly be missed...He was a great man & great coach at Benton Harbor High School during my highschool years....Praying for the family.
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Melanie Swanigan-Marlow (Benton Harbor High School Class of 90)
December 2nd, 2023 at 12:04am
Coach was one of the kindest, genuine men I ever met. He ALWAYS had a smile and a kind word. He was a gem and I am so glad I was blessed to have known him. Condolences to his family, friends and former players.
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Julie Legault
December 1st, 2023 at 7:01pm
