Lionel “Papa Suki” Lee Bergeron, a man of unwavering integrity, profound wisdom and boundless love, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family March 22, 2024. Born June 9, 1939, in Putnam, Connecticut, Lionel was the cherished son of Lionel and Anne Bergeron and the beloved elder brother to Lloyd and Sandra. He was preceded in death by his parents and younger sister.
Growing up in Norwalk, Connecticut, Lionel enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, spending moments fishing with his siblings in the pond behind their family home or sledding in their backyard. He learned the value of hard work and dedication early on, assisting his father in the family furniture business on weekends while attending Norwalk High School.
After graduating high school, Lionel answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force. Stationed in New Jersey, he served with honor and dedication for four years before deciding to pursue higher education. Lionel earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at Seton Hall University, becoming an industrial engineer at Audio Devices, Inc. He later pursued advanced studies, obtaining a master’s degree from the University of New Haven.
During this time, Lionel found enduring love with Catherine Ann Murphy. Together, they raised four children: Ellen Ann Taylor, Lionel David Bergeron, Sandra Elaine Bergeron Fremgen and Damien Lee Bergeron. After relocating his family to California, Lionel continued his pursuit of knowledge, earning a, MBA from Claremont Graduate University. Additionally, his career reached new heights, including a role as the vice president of Environmental Safety and Security at Occidental Petroleum.
In his free time, he enjoyed sitting outside with his wife, Catherine, while his children played in the pool or retreating to his workshop to complete different woodworking projects. In the mid-1980s, he and his family returned to Connecticut where he pursued a new career path in health care. He obtained a master’s in health administration from Saint Joseph College, dedicating himself to improving health care systems until his well-deserved retirement.
Lionel’s passion for education was matched only by his love for his family. He enjoyed sharing his favorite movies with his children and indulging in countless novels that he would pass on to his family when finished. Lionel prioritized family experiences through activities such as neighborhood bike rides, explorations of national parks like the Grand Canyon, and memorable road trips to historical sites. Family dinners were a custom that Lionel embraced, allowing him to catch up on his family’s daily highlights. His home was also a haven for animals, often allowing his children to adopt strays.
After retiring, Lionel and Catherine settled in Red Bank. He relished precious moments with their beloved dog Suki and two cats, Melody and Merlin, and eagerly anticipated visits from their grown children and grandchildren: Audrey and Jane Taylor; Isabella and Alexander Bergeron; Everett, Annabelle and Elaine Fremgen; and Bridget, Cassidy and Elliott Bergeron. A moral compass and protector of his family, Lionel instilled values of hard work, respect, and integrity in his children and grandchildren. He took quiet pride in all their accomplishments, serving as a steadfast supporter and observer of their endeavors.
Lionel “Papa Suki” Lee Bergeron leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion and wisdom that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. While he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family.
A celebration of Lionel’s remarkable life will be held July 10 in Red Bank.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Monmouth County SPCA in honor of Lionel’s love of animals.
Rest in eternal peace, dear Lionel, knowing that your love and legacy will endure for generations to come.
The article originally appeared in the June 13 – 19, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
