Gregory Bergenske Obituary

JANESVILLE - Gregory Alan Bergenske, age 70, of Janesville, passed away on Friday, Sept. 1, 2023, at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Greg was born in what was then known as Blooming Grove, Wis. , to Otto and Virginia Bergenske. Early on, Greg developed an interest in collecting political items, and that is where he undoubtedly conceived a curiosity about politics. A Boy Scout from Cub to Eagle, Greg lived the Boy Scout Oath. He was very proud of his Eagle award, and as a Boy Scout leader, continued to pass on his knowledge to hundreds of young scouts. He was Shooting Sports Director at Camp Indian Trails for many years and up to the last days of his life, kids would greet him with "hi, Gunny!"He was happy to attend with his child, the 100th anniversary of Scouting in 2012, and treasured his adult awards, including the Silver Beaver, one of the first awarded in Wisconsin. It is the highest adult award in Scouting. Greg loved, studied, and respected Native American culture, and was a member of Indian hobbyist organizations, such as the Mascoutin and the White Bear Societies. He graduated from Queen of Apostles High School in 1972. Always a spiritual seeker, Greg studied Religion for many years. In spite of undiagnosed dyslexia, he received his BS in Religious Education and another BS in Philosophy from Edgewood College in Madison. He earned his Master's in Adult Religious Education from Regis College, Denver. Greg worked in Religious Education and Special Education most of his adult life. He enjoyed playing golf with his father-in-law and others. He was endlessly giving of himself to others, a willing and uncomplaining volunteer for his church, the Knights of Columbus and his community. He dearly loved his family, including his cat, Otis. Greg is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne; his daughters, Celeste - formerly known as Nick, and Rena; his brother, Michael (Debbie) Bergenske; his father-in-law, Ralph Hawley; his sister-in-law, Lilita (Andrew) Kenyon; his brothers-in-law, Randy and Jason Hawley; many nieces and nephews and many, many friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father; his brother, Brian; and his mother-in-law, Nell Hawley. Greg loved completely, without reservation. He will be missed by everyone whose life he touched. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www. gundersonfh. com. Gunderson StoughtonFuneral & Cremation Care1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St. (608) 873-4590