Fishing gear has been stowed. Mark Alan Bergey, 62, peacefully passed away on March 3 , 2026, in Wenatchee, Washington.
Born on November 13, 1963, to Elizabeth and Francis (Frank) Bergey in Ketchikan, he lived throughout Southeast Alaska, including Sitka, until he moved to the lower 48, later in life, ending in Waterville, Washington.
Mark was very prideful with his native Tlingit heritage. He lived a life filled with adventure, dedication, and love for his passions.
Mark graduated from Sitka High School in 1982 and went on to build a remarkable career as an IBEW journeyman electrician. For over 41 years, he took pride in his work and was a devoted member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1547. He retired in 2020 from Alaska yet continued to work parttime in Washington. His commitment to his craft and his union was a source of great pride throughout his life.
Mark had a deep connection to the water that began in his childhood in Southeast Alaska. He grew up surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and spent countless hours on boats fishing for halibut and king salmon. Participating in the Sitka Salmon Derby with his brothers was one of his favorite pastimes.
Hunting was especially thrilling for Mark. He had many fun and adventurous hunting trips with his brothers. He enjoyed the hunt and camaraderie of those who went with him. His love for power sports also fueled his adventurous spirit—he enjoyed pushing Fords and ATVs to their limits in search of the next adrenaline rush.
Mark’s love for dogs was evident through his lifelong companionship with red retrievers. Ruby, Scoob, Zuke, Litzy, and Jo-Jo were among the loyal pets who brought him joy and unconditional love over the years. Music also played an important role in Mark’s life—he had an encyclopedic knowledge of artists from his era and delighted in challenging friends and family to music trivia games.
Mark’s personality was as vibrant as his interests. He was strong-willed and direct, never hesitating to share his opinions. Yet beneath this exterior lay a jovial and kind-hearted man who cared deeply for those close to him. When at peace with someone, Mark’s warmth shone through as he offered unwavering support and love.
Family meant everything to Mark. He is survived by his son Christopher Johnson (Bergey) and Christopher’s partner Ruby; his siblings Mike (Kathi) Bergey, Anita (Tom) Mattingley, Sandra Bergey, Mona Allen, Lisa Bergey, and Guy (Robin) Bergey; four grandchildren, Derrick, Trey, Jackson, and Hawkeye along with nieces and a nephew, and along with step family whom he helped raise.
He was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth Catherine (Shields) Bergey and Francis George Bergey.
Mark’s legacy is one of passion—for family and companions, for adventure on land and sea, and above all else, for living life fully on his own terms. "May those who knew him find comfort in their best memories of him during this time of loss," family said.
A celebration of his life will be held later.
