Bernard "Bernie" Gamber

Bernard “Bernie” Ellsworth Gamber, 69, a resident of rural Underwood, died Saturday, July 20, 2013 at his home after a long battle with cancer.

Bernie was born on November 14, 1943 in Fergus Falls, the son of Frank and Bertha (Lill) Gamber. He grew up in Fergus Falls and graduated from Fergus Falls High School. After high school, in 1961 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. and served his country until 1964, when he was honorably discharged. Upon returning from the Marines, Bernie attended Fergus Falls Community College and then Minnesota State University.

On March 12, 1966, he married Sandra “Sandy” Johnsen in Battle Lake. Through the years, Bernie worked at Con-Agra, Mid-Am and most recently served 9 years as an Otter Tail County Veteran’s Service Officer.

He was a member of Sverdrup Lutheran Church in Underwood, Underwood Legion Post 489, where he served as Commander and Sergeant at Arms along with other offices. He also was on the Underwood Fire Department, where he served as Chief and was a previous mayor of Underwood and also a City Council member. He enjoyed drawing, fishing, reading, golfing, bowling and watching his grandchildren’s activities.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Duane, who died as an infant and Jim Gamber.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy; daughters, Lissa (Kevin) Johanson, Kris Torgusson, Amy (Darren) Duenow; nine grandchildren, Liz (Tarver) Nova, Mitch and Sami Johanson, Ashley, Matt, Ben and Noah Torgusson, Nikki and Dustin Duenow; great-granddaughter, Avery Torgusson; sister, Pearl (Ron) Noble and brother, Donald (Sylvia) Gamber; brother-in-law, Bricker (Jan) Johnsen and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Tuesday at Sverdrup Lutheran Church, Underwood, MN
Clergy: Reverend Nancy Monke
Burial: Sverdrup Lutheran Cemetery, Underwood, MN
Military Participation by the Underwood American Legion Post #489