It is with great sadness in our hearts that on April 25, 2020 Michele Bergen(nee Bellanger) loving spouse, mother, sister and friend passed away at home in Fairmont, BC at the age of 64.
Michele was born in Vancouver, British Columbia. At 8 years of age she moved to the Okanagan with her family. She attended various schools within Kelowna and Penticton completing her formal education in Penticton, BC. It is in Penticton that she met Will Sr. The two moved to Fort St. John where their son Will was born in 1977. Michele lived and worked in the north for a number of years working as a cook in various camps and hotels. This is where her amazing skill and joy of cooking began. Her ‘northern family’ were one of her most precious gifts of her time there.
She moved to the Columbia Valley in 1989 and settled into what was to become her forever home. It was here that her two daughters, Nikola and Ashley, came into her life. They were a joy to her beyond her wildest dreams. She was the girl’s “Momma Mitch”. She taught unconditional love and always encouraged them to “come home” to the Valley. She was an earth angel to them and many.
Michele was outgoing, loving, kind and was first to always offer a helping hand to anyone in need. Her words were truthful and honest and always coming from the heart. She had a great sense of humour and laughter was contagious. In August 2009 Michele married Al, her best friend, and love of her life. Together they created a second home in Costa Rica in what Michele frequently called her Happy Place. She loved children, animals, motorcycle rides and the great outdoors but mostly she loved people. She will always be remembered for her sweet smile, generous heart and loving nature.
Michele was predeceased by her parents Maurice Bellanger and mother Andree Bellanger (Marcoux) and her son Will Cahoon Jr. She is survived by her spouse Alan Bergen, daughters Nikola and Ashley (Mira granddaughter) sisters Joanne Bellanger (Greg) and Denise Chernoff (Ed), brother Jack Bellanger (Donna), sisters in law Becky (Bob) Lorna (Dave) Beverly, Sheila and a multitude of nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews and countless, MANY, MANY friends.
Celebrations of Michele’s life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley at hospicesocietycv.com