A Legacy of Generosity from the Bergh Family

Mr. and Mrs. Eddie and Delores Bergh - Courtesy of The Bergh Family

Eddie Bergh began his life-long relationship with The Salvation Army while still a young child. His first donation was a few coins dropped in the offering plate during church service.  His parents were Swedish missionaries and Salvation Army officers who served in Chicago at the Mont Clare Corps.  The elder Mr. Bergh passed away while Eddie was stationed overseas during World War II. When he returned stateside, he followed in his parents footsteps and also went to work for The Salvation Army at the men's social driving a donation truck.

Though life lead Eddie, his wife Delores, and their young family on a different path outside of The Army, he stayed in contact with his Salvationist friends and continued to attend special events with The Salvation Army until his death. 

Eddie and Delores lived in the Chicago area for the remainder of their lives, but would make trips to visit their son Steve and daughter-in-law Beth, here in Alaska. They were married for 67 years and still very much in love when Eddie passed away, finally being promoted to glory.  When Delores passed two years later, the remainder of their savings was left to the family. The Bergh children felt it would be appropriate to give a portion of that amount to honor the Lord's work and thought The Salvation Army would be the most thoughtful place to entrust that donation. Steve shared, "My mother and father would have been honored to help others."

The Salvation Older Alaskans Program, which provides meals daily to those seniors who may otherwise go hungry, was able to purchase a vehicle with the donation made by Beth and Steve Bergh in honor of Steve’s parents.

Steve added, "It is important to make sure people, especially the elderly, are not slipping through the cracks. The Older Alaskans Program helps do exactly that. It is encouraging to see The Salvation Army active in this area. Donating to this cause is a blessing."