Norma Lee Bergin, 87, of Peterborough, NH and formerly of Springfield and Decatur, Illinois died peacefully at her home on November 1, 2018 after a period of declining health.

She was born on June 7, 1931 in Decatur, IL, a daughter of the late Edgar and Goldie (Wright) Stark. Norma was raised and educated in Decatur and graduated from Millikin University after earning a bachelor’s degree in education.

She married Thomas Bergin in a beautiful ceremony at Saint James Church in Decatur on August 16, 1952. Norma enjoyed her life’s roles of being a wife and mother for her family, as well as a teacher and bookstore manager until she retired in 1997.

Norma’s biggest joy in life was her family, both here in NH and in IL. She also enjoyed her card games, especially Bridge. Her quieter moments were spent reading, gardening, and sipping coffee – morning, noon and night. Norma loved to take long touring car rides in a convertible, all around New England, and learning more about our American History, especially the Bicentennial period. Her travels included seeing the Tall Ships in Boston, Martha’s Vineyard, driving up Mount Washington’s Auto Road and braving the Kancamagus Highway. She loved a good meal at Burdick’s Restaurant, or any meal prepared especially for her. She was always open to shopping, whether it was at the Outlet Malls, the Vermont Country Store, or at Craft Fairs along her autumn drives. She even liked going to live productions like the Nutcracker Ballet, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and Sting (the musician). Norma truly enjoyed life and loved her home, and even her ornery dog Boris.

Norma’s husband Thomas preceded her in death on September 20, 1996.

She is survived by her 3 sons, Mark and his wife Katherine of Peterborough, Greg and his wife Kathy of Chicago, IL, and Brian and his wife Tricia of Alton, IL; 4 grandchildren; her 3 sisters, Sharon S. Speasl, Delores Stark and Judy S. McConkey; her brother, Bill Stark, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She will be truly missed by all.

At Norma’s request, there will be no formal calling hours or services here at this time. In the spring, her family will celebrate her life together and she will be buried in the family plot in IL.

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