Gary Bergholtz Sr

Gary Lynn Bergholtz, Sr., loving husband and father, passed away Friday, December 11, 2020, at age 68 with his family by his side. He fought a heroic fight. Gary was born June 21,1952 in St. Louis, Missouri to Rosemarie and Robert Bergholtz. Gary is preceded in death by his father, Robert Bergholtz; grandson, Matthew Martin and by his wife of 47 years, Maribeth Bergholtz. He is survived by his loving wife, Belinda Bradberry; and his five adoring children with Maribeth: Stephanie Martin, Bridget Todd, Gary L. Jr., Eric and Michael Bergholtz; and step-son Joshua Merryman. He is also survived by his mother, Rosemarie Bergholtz; brother Robert and Richard Bergholtz; sisters Cheryl Nienas, Debbie Carmody, Rosemarie Zinser, and numerous nieces and nephews. Gary also leaves his 10 beautiful grandchildren who were the joy and light of his life; Declan, Kate, Michael, Jonathan, Gary III, Lorin, Isabelle, Karoline, Sophia and Quinn. When God made Gary, he certainly broke the mold. He was a ‘one of a kind,’ larger than life and charismatic husband and father, known for his entertaining stories, quips and engaging smile. He appeared to be tough as nails on the exterior, but was a kind and generous individual, especially when it came to complete strangers or his grandkids, whom he loved dearly. Gary loved life! Classic Rock and Roll albums, sports (and the Redskins) and slot machines. Gary never shied away from a challenge. They said he couldn’t be a firefighter…they were wrong, even becoming Chief Bergholtz, following his sons into the volunteer firefighter world. When not known as “Chief”, he was fondly known as “Senior”, both for his age and being namesake to his son, Gary, Jr. A Funeral Mass will be held January 11, 2021 at 11 o’clock in the morning at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church, located 11507 Huffmeister Road, Houston, TX 77065. Social distancing protocols will be in place. All attendees must wear masks for the entirety of the service. Please note that during these unprecedented times, regulations can change quickly, so we will provide an update in early January should the protocols change. The family wishes to thank all of the individuals who had a hand in Gary’s care and treatment over the past eight months, including the staff at MD Anderson, the wonderful Nurses and Nurses’ Aides at Vantage Hospice, Dr. William K. Decker with Baylor College of Medicine, Jere Galloway Jr., and for the outpouring of support from family and friends with cheerful visits and delicious meals to sustain Gary’s spirits. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made in Gary’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ~ select “Dedicate my Donation”. www.st.jude.org/donate. Cards may be addressed to “Family of Gary Bergholtz Sr., 15934 Cutten Rd, Houston TX 77070.” The Addison family and staff of Magnolia Funeral Home extend condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.