Robert "Bob" Bergstrom

Robert Bergstrom, known almost universally as "Bob," passed away on March 25, 2026, after a brief illness at the age of 76. He was a beloved teacher to generations of high school students, a passionate advocate for immigrants and refugees, a dedicated volunteer in his community, and a cherished husband, brother, father, and grandfather. Born and raised on the East Side of Saint Paul and most recently a resident of Shoreview, Bob will be profoundly missed by both his family and the thousands whose lives he touched over the years.

While serving as an instructor in the Minnesota National Guard, Bob began his teaching career in the St. Paul Public Schools, where he would remain until his retirement. He devoted much of his professional life to teaching English as a Second Language at Harding High School. To the countless refugee and immigrant students who passed through his classroom, and to their families, Bob was far more than a teacher: he was a tireless advocate and a steady, generous presence who helped them navigate a new language and an unfamiliar culture. Later, as the coordinator of Harding's International Baccalaureate program, he taught English and literature to some of the school's most promising students — often the sons and daughters of those who had passed through his classroom a generation before.

Bob retired from teaching in 2007 to begin his second career: spending time with his grandchildren and giving back to his community. He and his wife, Marj, were a reliable part of Meals on Wheels for decades, and deeply involved members of Roseville Lutheran Church, helping immigrants and others through community service projects. Bob and Marj also spent as much time as possible with their three granddaughters, who lived in Boston and Denver, becoming an active and devoted presence in their lives. A passionate and lifelong Twins fan, Bob also enjoyed international travel, and was a highly active patron of live theater, appearing frequently both in the audience and on the stage over the years.

Those who knew Bob will remember his exuberance, his energy, and the love he shared with everyone around him. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Keith and Donna Bergstrom. He is survived by his wife, Marj; his siblings, David (Shari), and Karen (Greg) Lydon; his three children, Scott (Jana), Alison, and Sam (Kari); and his three granddaughters Sonja, Cynthia, and Renata. All of them carry forward the memory of a man whose love was as generous and unconditional as everything else about him.

Bob Bergstrom was the kind of man the world is quietly, enormously better for having had in it. He will be profoundly missed.
Visitation will be held at Roseville Memorial Chapel on Thursday, April 16, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM, 2245 Hamline Ave. N., Roseville MN 55113.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Roseville Lutheran Church on Friday, April 17, 1215 Roselawn Ave W, Roseville, MN 55113, at 11:00 AM. (Visitation at 10:00 AM.)

Details and online memorials may be found at www.ohalloranmurphy.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an organization that shared Bob’s values, such as:

Roseville Lutheran Church Endowment Fund
(www.rosevillelutheran.org)

Out Front Minnesota
(www.outfront.org)

Jonathan House
(www.iafr.org/projects/jonathan-house)

Global Refuge
(www.globalrefuge.org)