Norma E. Bergstrom

Norma Evelyn (Janson) Bergstrom

March 10, 1930—January 20, 2024

Our sweet Norma left this earthly plain in the early morning hours in the loving company of her oldest son, John, listening to hymns. If she could’ve chosen the circumstances, we’re thinking this scenario would be high on her list.

Born in Boston, MA to Swedish immigrant parents, John and Helga (Rassmunson) Janson, Norma spoke only Swedish upon entering kindergarten at age 5. She overcame this challenge readily and enjoyed growing up in Watertown, MA.

Working with American Airlines at their ticket counter for several years, Norma developed a desire to travel. Customer service was the perfect role for Norma, as good-natured, personable, and kind are hallmarks of her personality. She purchased and ran World Wide Travel in New Britain, CT for many years. Norma found joy in organizing customized excursions all over the world for many people. Oftentimes she was able to provide a firsthand account of the sites and accommodations, as she traveled the world extensively with her family.

After her travel agency days came to an end, Norma could be found at Pilgrim Pines Conference Center in NH or Covenant Living of Cromwell, always out in front. Her genuine love for people was evident as she greeted guests and residents with her signature smile and twinkle in her eyes.

When her sons’ friends would stay at the Bergstrom’s home overnight, Norma could be found talking to them into the wee hours about nothing and everything.

She served for several years as Deacon at Bethany Covenant Church, at that time in New Britain, CT and on the Board of Directors at Covenant Village which is now Covenant Living. She and her husband Paul were instrumental in planting Evangelical Covenant churches in Orange, CA and Keene, NH. In all she did, she sought guidance and comfort from God.

Norma/Mom/FarMor/Grandma leaves to cherish her memory…her son John (Janet) Bergstrom and her son Bruce (Cathy) Bergstrom…her beloved grandchildren Emma (Tim) Bergstrom-Fitzpatrick, Bobbi (Chris) Didone, Samuel (Kelly) Bergstrom, Mackenzie (Jimmy) Swiger, Joshua Bergstrom, and Jacob Bergstrom…and the joy of her heart, her great grandchildren Everett and Easton Swiger. There are leagues of people who have a fond memory of Norma. While each memory is unique, the common denominator is that Norma left each person feeling valued and loved by her. Norma is predeceased by her parents and by her husband, Paul.

With each visit and each FaceTime call, Norma would close with, “Thanks loads for stopping by.” We are blessed to be part of her family and part of her legacy.

Our family extends sincere gratitude to the staff at Covenant Living of Cromwell for their tender and thorough care of Norma.

A private celebration of Norma’s life will be held at a later date. If you’d like to make a donation in honor of Norma, please consider Covenant Living of Cromwell, 52 Missionary Road, Cromwell, CT 06416 https://www.covliving.org/contact-us/donation/ and select Cromwell in the Location tab, or Pilgrim Pines Conference Center, 220 West Shore Road, Swanzey, NH 03446 https://www.pilgrimpines.org/donate.