Dorothy Joanne Bergene, 94

Dorothy Joanne Bergene, age 94 of Adams, died Sunday July 29 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. Dorothy was a loving wife, mother and especially enjoyed being a super grandmother and great-grandmother.

Dorothy was born April 15, 1930 to Edd and Ella (Johnson) Knutson, who farmed north of Adams. She graduated from Adams High School in 1948 and then moved to Austin and worked at the First National Bank. She married James (Jim) Allen Bergene of Adams on March 28, 1954 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. They farmed north of Adams until retiring in 1995 and they moved into their home in Adams in May of 2001.

She was preceded in death by her husband Jim, sister Ruby, and brothers Don, Al and Paul Knutson. She is survived by son Mark (Mary) of Cedar Falls, IA, granddaughter Sarah (Chance) McElhaney of Ankeny, IA, grandson James (Jenny) of Lenexa, KS, and great granddaughters Sydney, Noelle, Scarlett and Eleanor.

Dorothy lived a vibrant life. She was active and had a contagiously joyful smile on her face as she spent time doing a wide variety of activities with friends and family. She loved attending family gatherings and keeping up with all of her loved ones.

She and Jim were active members of Little Cedar Lutheran Church where she served on the Council, was a member of WELCA, the ladies circles and taught Sunday School.

Dorothy and Jim were also unwavering Minnesotans that tuned in faithfully to catch the latest Twins or Vikings game – even the years where a little wavering may have been warranted.

An avid bowler – Dorothy was so deeply involved that she qualified for the International Bowling Association’s Hall of Fame in 2004.

She could also often be found on the Cedar River Golf Course where she was a member and was proud to have had a hole-in-one. If the weather didn’t cooperate for a round of golf, a game of cards with friends was generally going on in the clubhouse.

After Jim died in 2005, there was rarely a day in which Dorothy was not at Bubbles’ Cafe enjoying fellowship with friends, spreading her joy with others and admiring the amazing pies being baked.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 am on Monday, August 5th at Little Cedar Lutheran Church in Adams with the Reverend Jeremy Johnson officiating. Visitation will be one from 10:00 am until the start of the service at the church. Interment will be at Little Cedar Lutheran Cemetery following the service.

The casket bearers are Bruce Bergene, Brian Bergene, Sydney Bergene, Bob Knutson, Nathan Wayne and Ron Jameson.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.

The Adams Funeral Home is in charge of Arrangements.