Obituary of Deanna Marie Bergenbring (Kunzelman)

Deanna Marie Bergenbring (Kunzelman)

January 21, 1941 – April 18, 2025

Deanna Marie Bergenbring, age 84, of Rockford, MN, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025. Born on January 21, 1941, in Stillwater, MN, Deanna was the beloved daughter of Boyd and Lois Kunzelman. She graduated from St. Louis Park High School and went on to attend the University of Minnesota, where she proudly cheered on the Gophers as a football cheerleader.

Deanna met the love of her life, Jerry Bergenbring, while working at Red Owl. Their connection was immediate, and it marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together. Over the next 62 years of marriage, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. One of those dreams came true when they opened Jerry’s Red Owl in Rockford, MN. More than just a grocery store, it quickly became a beloved gathering place — a cornerstone of the community where friendships blossomed, and memories were made. Throughout the years, Deanna and Jerry formed deep, lasting bonds with both customers and employees, cherishing every moment spent together at the store.

After the store’s closing, Deanna continued to share her warm spirit as a receptionist at Loretto Bank and later at Shingobee Builders, where she will be remembered for her contagious smile and welcoming presence.

Deanna was known for her warm smile, infectious laugh, and unmistakable sense of style. Always sassy and classy, she loved her signature coral lipstick and matching nail polish. She enjoyed being around people, bringing joy and energy wherever she went. Her early accomplishments included being crowned Miss St. Louis Park and working as a flight attendant, roles that reflected both her charm and adventurous spirit.

Deanna is preceded in death by her parents, Boyd and Lois Kunzelman, and her in-laws, Gerhard and Gulli Bergenbring. She is lovingly survived by her children: Scott Bergenbring, Todd (Becky) Bergenbring, Kara (Kirk) Gorres, and Krista (Mark) Dahlheimer; her cherished grandchildren: Hunter, Drake, Easton, Cole, Lane, and Jada; as well as many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Liberty Restaurant - 25 Central Ave. E - St. Michael, MN. All who knew and loved Deanna are welcome to join in honoring her memory.